Firework Safety Tips from Aronfeld Trial Lawyers

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks display put on by professionals. While fireworks are legal in Florida, a law signed in 2020 by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis created some clarifications on what days you can set off fireworks and which ones are legal. 

If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety tips:

1. Only use legal fireworks that are approved for consumer use. 
2. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
3. Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point fireworks toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials. 
4. Point fireworks away from you and occupied areas, even when they are not lit. 
5. Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
6. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
7. Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”
8. Do not use fireworks, if you are under the influence or alcohol or drugs. 
9. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
10. Enjoy a public display of fireworks, if possible.

An Important Warning About Sparklers: 

In 2021, there were an estimated 1,500 emergency department-treated injuries associated with firecrackers and 1,100 involving sparklers. In 2021, the parts of the body most often injured by fireworks were hands and fingers (an estimated 31 percent of injuries) along with head, face, and ears (an estimated 21 percent).

More than half of the fireworks injuries to children under the age of 5 are caused by sparklers. While water is known to boil at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, we avoid having children near boiling water. Sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees and can cause third-degree burns. It goes without saying, sparklers should not be handled by children. Instead of sparklers, consider letting kids play with glow sticks, party poppers, silly string, or bubbles to join in on the fun.

Don’t forget about your pets. Keep your four-legged friends indoors. Fireworks can be extremely stressful for pets, but there are ways to help reduce their fear and anxiety. Close the curtains or blinds and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction. Treat toys filled with their favorite food can also provide a healthy distraction, and keep them happily occupied.   

From all of us at Aronfeld Trial Lawyers, Have a Safe & Happy Fourth of July!

Accidents often happen when you least expect it.  If you are involved in any type of accident this 4th of July, whether it be a car accident, pedestrian accident or slip and fall, our firm is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.  Spencer Aronfeld is a Board-Certified Trial Lawyer, and he and the lawyers at Aronfeld Trial Lawyers understand Florida’s complex personal injury laws. Since 1991 we have fought hard to protect the legal rights of those injured due to someone else’s negligence. 

Contact us today and speak with an experienced attorney toll free +1-866-597-4529, local +1-305-441-0440, or by email.  We offer a free initial consultation at your home, office, hotel, or hospital.  Virtual sign-ups available.  

SOURCES: 

10 Tips Firework Safety – U.S. Department of Homeland Security (June 30, 2022) 

Follow These Steps for a Safe Fourth of July – American Red Cross