Leave Fireworks to the Professionals

Each year, thousands of people suffer injuries severe enough to require medical treatment due to fireworks-related incidents, many of which involve children and young adults. While most of these injuries result from amateurs using professional-grade, homemade, or illegal fireworks, even small firecrackers and sparklers can cause significant harm.

Moreover, fireworks are responsible for starting an average of 19,000 fires annually.

If you choose to use legal fireworks, follow these safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Read the Instructions: Always read and follow the instructions on the fireworks packaging.
2. Use Outdoors Only: Fireworks should only be used outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials.
3. Have Water Ready: Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or malfunction.
4. Wear Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses and avoid loose clothing to protect yourself from sparks and debris.
5. Light One at a Time: Light fireworks one at a time and then move back quickly.
6. Do Not Relight Duds: If a firework does not go off, do not attempt to relight it. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.
7. Supervise Children: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.
8. Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from lit fireworks to avoid injury from sparks or explosions.
9. No Alcohol: Avoid using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
10. Dispose Properly: After the fireworks have completely burned out, douse the remains with water before discarding them to prevent a trash fire.

Remember that Sparklers are also hazardous.

Young children often hold sparklers during parades and festivals, but these are more dangerous than they appear. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing, and children can suffer severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for over 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. For children under five, sparklers are responsible for nearly half of the total estimated injuries.

Consider using safer alternatives like glow sticks, confetti poppers, or colored streamers instead.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association