With the Fourth of July just around the corner, several New Hampshire residents have already begun celebrating with fireworks and other devices. While a patriotic spirit is to be encouraged, far too many citizens overlook safety when utilizing these potentially dangerous objects. A new study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reveals that fireworks-related incidents were responsible for two deaths in 2009 and approximately 9,000 emergency room visits for injuries. According to the CPSC, throughout the 30 days near last year’s holiday, about 6,000 injuries involving fireworks were reported half of the injuries related to firecrackers, bottle rockets, and sparklers.
Consumers below the age of 20 are the most prone to fireworks injuries; however, the risk of serious injury or even death still exists for anyone within close proximity of fireworks or other pyrotechnics. Some common fireworks injuries and hazards include:
- Burns of the face, head, and hands
- Lacerations
- Loss of limbs
- Residential fires
- Wrongful death
Parental supervision is key when legal fireworks are being used. Never allow young children to set off or play with fireworks or other gadgets. Remember to also never throw or point fireworks at another individual. For more information on how you can help prevent serious injuries related to fireworks this Fourth of July holiday, please refer to the CPSC’s website for consumer fireworks safety tips.
The New Hampshire personal injury attorneys at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. cannot emphasize enough the importance of consumer safety during the Independence Day holiday. Take every essential preventative measure to keep your loved ones safe.