New Jersey Personal Injury Blog
CPSC Warns of Fireworks Injuries During Fourth of July
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, in the combined 30 days prior and subsequent to July 4, 2009, approximately 6,000 people were injured by fireworks, with half of the injuries specifically related to firecrackers, bottle rockets, and sparklers.
Consumers under the age of 20 are the most likely to be injured by fireworks; however, the risk of serious injury or death exists for anyone within close proximity to fireworks or other pyrotechnics.
Fireworks related injuries and hazards are known to include:
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Loss of limb, sight and hearing
- Residential fires
- Wrongful death
Parental supervision is integral to the proper use of legal fireworks (in states where such use is permitted by law). One should never allow young children to set-off or “play” with fireworks. Fireworks should never be pointed at or thrown toward another individual, and viewing public must be kept a safe distance away from pyrotechnic displays put on both privately and by municipalities.
For more information and safety tips with regard to how you can help prevent serious injuries related to fireworks, please refer to the CPSC’s website.
The New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Blume Goldfaden cannot overstress the importance of consumer safety during the Independence Day holiday season and throughout the summer. Remember: New Jersey State law (N.J.S.A. 21:3-1 et seq.) prohibits the use of all fireworks and explosives without a permit. For more information, click here.
