Facts and Statistics on Fireworks Injuries in New York
The Fourth of July comes just once a year, but a festive celebration with fireworks is a welcome sight for New Yorkers during any season. The enjoyment of a stunning light show is fun for all ages, even though you appreciate the dangers. However, the statistics on injuries may force you to think again about fireworks when you learn the statistics. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 10,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms throughout the 2019 calendar year. In the two weeks before and after the July 4th holiday, an average of 180 individuals seek emergency treatment every day for fireworks-related wounds.
Some fireworks injuries are preventable through the exercise of caution and following safety recommendations. Still, many others occur because of someone else’s negligent acts. If you were hurt due to another person’s misconduct or a defective product, it is important to reach out to a New York fireworks injuries attorney right away. Meanwhile, some information about fireworks-related injuries and safety tips may be helpful.
Facts About Burns and Injuries from Fireworks: Reviewing some statistics from authoritative sources can help you understand the risks of fireworks accidents and injuries. The 2019 Annual Fireworks Report prepared by the CPSC indicates that:
- An estimated 57 percent of all fireworks-related injuries are burns.
- Age is a strong indicator of injuries from fireworks use, as children under 15 years old account for more than one-third of all victims. Almost every year, around 50 percent of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries involve people younger than 20 years old.
- Males are more likely to be hurt by fireworks than females, at 66 percent.
- Not surprisingly, injuries to the hands account for 30 percent of all fireworks injuries. Leg injuries comprise 23 percent, while head, face, and ears are 16 percent.
- Firecrackers, sparklers, and bottle rockets are the most likely types of fireworks to cause injuries. It is no coincidence that these novelties are most likely to be purchased for at-home use.
- The most serious injuries caused by fireworks are blindness, third degree burns, and permanent scarring. However, flames and explosions caused by fireworks can also lead to life-threatening structure and vehicle fires.
Safety Tips to Avoid Injuries: Most experts agree that the most effective way to prevent harm to yourself and your family is to leave fireworks to the professional. Of course, thrill-seekers may disregard this suggestion, so it is worth reviewing some safety tips offered by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- Never allow young children to set off fireworks or play with sparklers. Though they are not considered a threat, sparklers can reach a temperature of 1800 degree and can ignite clothing.
- Keep in mind that certain fireworks are manufactured for professional, municipal-grade displays. Avoid buying items in brown packaging, which are not intended for consumers.
- Always watch fireworks from a safe distance.
- Back away immediately after igniting the fuse of fireworks, and never try to reignite a “dud.”
- Have a bucket of water handy to douse flames.
- Never point bottle rockets or other fireworks at another person.
Consult with a New York Burn and Fire Accidents Lawyer About Your Rights
Fireworks are inherently dangerous, so some injuries are the result of errors by the user. However, many are the result of negligence by another person or a defect by the manufacturer. When misconduct is behind a fireworks accident, you may have rights as a victim. Please contact The Mandel Law Firm to learn more about them. You can call our Manhattan officer at (646) 770-3868 or check out our website to set up a free consultation today.