The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and if you plan on celebrating, there is a very good chance that fireworks will be involved. Below, our firm has compiled a short checklist of various firework safety tips to help ensure you, your friends, and your family all have a fun, safe, injury-free Fourth of July. Please continue reading to learn more.

Useful Firework Safety Tips

Before, and during your firework show, please keep the following tips in mind:

• Never purchase fireworks that are illegal in your area. 
• Fireworks in brown paper are not intended for amateur displays, which means if you see them, you should not buy them.
• Leave firework displays to adults–children should never set off fireworks. 
• Do not keep fireworks in your pocket.
• Do not let your pets outside. Oftentimes, the bright lights and loud noises can cause them to run away or behave erratically.
• Ensure you have a water source, such as a garden hose, and a fire extinguisher on standby, just in case you should need them.
• Always wear protective glasses when setting off fireworks.
• If a firework does not go off initially, do not try and relight it. 
• Never light off fireworks until you are sure that everyone is a safe distance away. 
• Always douse your fireworks with cool water before throwing them away. This can help prevent a trash can fire. 

What should I do if I am injured in a firework accident?

If you are injured in a firework accident on another person’s property and due to that party’s negligence, there is a very good chance that you will be entitled to financial compensation. Once you’ve received medical treatment, which should be your priority, you should reach out to an experienced Westchester County personal injury attorney who can gather and present all evidence needed to satisfy the burden of proof in a premises liability claim. That being said, you must file your claim timely, as the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York State is, generally, three years, giving the wrongly injured three years from the date of their accident to sue. If you wait any longer than three years, you will most likely be barred from suing. Our firm is here to begin the claims process on your behalf today–all you have to do is give us a call.