This past weekend was the 4th of July: This holiday can be a source of fun and entertainment, but at any moment it can turn into a disaster due to injuries resulting from the use of illegal consumer fireworks.
Fireworks are extremely dangerous when the displays are conducted by unlicensed individuals and lead to many injuries each year. Each 4th of July thousands of injuries related to fireworks occur. In 2012, US hospitals treated 8700 patients with fireworks related injuries 55 percent of these injuries were to the extremities and 31 percent of injuries were to the head. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 8 deaths and an estimated 11400 fireworks related injuries which is a marked increase from the 8700 reported in 2012. The National Fire Protection agency reports that the risk of fireworks exceeds the risk of cigarettes making fireworks the riskiest consumer product.
Massachusetts Law prohibits the use of, possession of, or sale of fireworks, it also prohibits the transportation of fireworks purchased legally in another state. Massachusetts health, fire and law enforcement officials urge consumers to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. Leaving the consumer fireworks to the professionals will avoid unnecessary injuries resulting from the use of dangerous fireworks. Even sparklers can cause injuries burning at a temperature of 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to cause third degree burns to put this into perspective, glass melts at 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Sparklers are responsible for 16 percent of fireworks injuries.
Fireworks are a staple of American celebration and of the 4th of July in general and they can be enjoyed safely by following a few simple tips 1. Leave the fireworks to the professionals by enjoying supervised public displays. 2. Never allow children to play with fireworks. 3. Keep a safe distance from all fireworks displays. 4. Never try to pick up or relight fireworks that have been left over after the display.
No one wants or plans for an accident however the reality is that accidents happen and lives can be changed completely due to an accident of this kind. If you or someone you know have been injured by the use of illegal consumer fireworks you may be entitled to compensation. It is important for you to know your legal rights. The attorneys at Wynn and Wynn are dedicated to the representation of individuals and are available to discuss the laws related to your situation and help you to navigate the complicated legal process during this difficult time. Call today at 1-800-852-5211 or click here for a free consultation.
