Erie Injury Lawyers Offer Fireworks Safety Tips

Pennsylvania injury lawyers are not unique in understanding how dangerous fireworks can be and how improper handling only makes fireworks more dangerous. Yet it can be difficult to find good safety information about fireworks because they are, after all, mostly illegal in Pennsylvania.

Still, a little bit of probing on the internet led us to some excellent fireworks safety resources. One video presentation we thought was particularly helpful can found HERE. The video offers an object lesson in the dangers of fireworks, a brief history of fireworks, a review of consumer fireworks and regulation, and safety lessons in the use of consumer fireworks.

Now, we will also echo the conventional wisdom. Obey local laws. You should. We advocate that you should. Don’t be confused about our position on whether you should obey the law. However, we know that many of you won’t, ahem, strictly adhere to Pennsylvania law and we believe that you ought to have helpful safety information available to you. So, in addition, we offer these general suggestions:

* Only use fireworks outdoors.

* Always have water handy (hose or bucket).

* Don’t alter or combine fireworks. Use them only as intended by the manufacturer.

* Don’t let children use fireworks. In fact, even sparklers should be limited to children age 12 or older.

* Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.

* Use common sense. Spectators and others should keep a safe distance from the fireworks and the person lighting the fireworks should wear safety glasses.

* Drinking and fireworks do not mix. Have a “designated shooter.”

* Do not use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.

We hope that you and your family will have a safe and fun Fourth of July.

Contact a Pennsylvania Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of careless fireworks use in northwest Pennsylvania, we can help. Contact us today for a free consult. We’ll tell you if you have a case and whether we can help you. Call 814-273-2010 locally or 814-273-2010 toll free.