A fireworks display is a perfect way to round out your Fourth of July party. But before doing so, it is important that you remember fireworks safety tips to ensure that everyone involved is in good hands. Read on to learn the most important tips, and how a seasoned Leonardtown personal injury lawyer at The Dorsey Law Firm can aid you in the unfortunate chance that you end up injured due to a fireworks accident.
What are the most important fireworks safety tips?
Before you commence your Fourth of July festivities, it is essential that you refresh your memory with these helpful fireworks safety tips:
- Before starting the display:
- Make sure that you, or whoever is lighting the fireworks, do not consume alcohol or drugs throughout the party.
- Have all pets go inside, as the bright lights and loud sounds may cause them to run away or behave erratically.
- Check that the fireworks are not come in brown paper, as these are professional-grade fireworks used only by experts.
- Check that the type of fireworks is legal in the state of Maryland.
- Have a fire extinguisher or garden hose easily accessible, in the event of a fire.
- When setting off the fireworks:
- Make sure you are outdoors.
- Wear protective glasses.
- Keep the fireworks away from your body and pockets.
- Keep children away from the fireworks, and instead ensure that a responsible adult is handling them.
- Light only one firework at a time, never in your hand or while standing over them.
- Never relight a “dud” that did not initially go off, as you may get burned.
- Walk a safe distance away after lighting the fuse, and make sure all bystanders are also a safe distance away.
- Do not throw or point the fireworks at a bystander.
- At the end of the display:
- Do not immediately throw out the fireworks in the garbage, as this may start a fire. Instead, douse them in cool water and let them sit for a while.
What happens if I am injured in a fireworks accident?
If you have been injured in a fireworks accident due to a property owner’s negligence, you may be eligible to recover compensation via a premises liability lawsuit. To do so, it is best that you collect as much evidence as possible to satisfy the burden of proof. This can include photos and videos, witness statements, a police report, and medical documentation and bills.
However, if your injury was due to a manufacturing or design defect of the fireworks, you may be eligible for a product liability claim. For this, do not throw the defective product away, as it will be essential evidence for your case. Then, contact a knowledgeable St. Mary’s county defective product lawyer immediately.
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