December 31st is not the just the last day of the year; it is also one of the biggest celebration days of the year. People across the world join with family and friends to reminisce about the year and share hopes and dreams for the year ahead. Traditional New Year’s celebrations in the U.S. often include raising a glass, counting down the final seconds until midnight, and singing Auld Lang Syne. With smaller celebrations noisemakers are commonplace, but at large celebrations, they are often replaced with magnificent firework displays. While firework displays are festive and a crowd- pleaser, they can also be quite dangerous not handled correctly.
Improper use of fireworks can lead to fires, serious injuries, and even death. Each year, fireworks cause more than 15,000 fires and more than 8,000 injuries treated in hospital emergency departments across the country. According to data collected by the Centers for Disease Control, New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July see the most firework-related injuries.
Due to the dangerous nature of fireworks, displays are often best left to the professionals. However, if your New Year’s celebration would not be complete with a “bang,” make sure to follow these key safety tips:
- Do not mix alcohol and fireworks. Each New Year’s Eve, people are injured after lighting fireworks when their judgment is impaired by alcohol or drugs. Do not use fireworks if you have been drinking or under the influence of drugs. Fireworks require sobriety.
- Never use illegal explosives or professional fireworks. It is important to only purchase fireworks from authorized stores and stands. Never buy homemade or illegal fireworks.
- Take necessary safety precautions before setting off fireworks. First, make sure the area is suitable for fireworks in that it is free of overhead obstructions and away from flammable materials. Second, prep the area where fireworks will be lit to keep children and pets from entering the area. Third, wear safety goggles and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby.
- Educate yourself on how to set off fireworks safely. When lighting fireworks, never point one in the direction of a person, building or anything flammable. It is also important not to hold a firework when attempting to light it—always place a firework on the ground.
- Properly dispose of used fireworks. To dispose of fireworks, place all used and “dud” fireworks in a metal receptacle and soak with water. Place the receptacle in an area away from a building or anything combustible.
- Follow all local laws regarding firework usage. Before setting off fireworks, be sure to check your local laws. For example, the use and discharge of fireworks within the Kansas City city limits is prohibited. In some areas, people are required to obtain a permit to display fireworks. Always check first.
- Never let children handle fireworks. Children should never handle fireworks, including those labeled as sparklers. While some people think that sparklers are less dangerous than other fireworks, it is not true. A sparkler, when lit, can reach a temperature of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you or a loved one suffered a severe injury due to the negligence of another, it is important to know that you may have legal recourse. The attorneys at the Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and Missouri, obtain just compensation for their injuries. Our caring team of attorneys will take the time to listen to you and carefully review the facts of your case. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673. At Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P we are dedicated to helping injury victims!
