With the Fourth of July just around the corner, several Oregon residents have already begun celebrating with fireworks and other devices. While a patriotic spirit is to be encouraged, far too many citizens overlook safety when utilizing these potentially dangerous objects. 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, throughout the 30 days near last year’s holiday, about 6,000 injuries involving fireworks were reported in which half of the injuries related to firecrackers, bottle rockets, and sparklers.
Consumers below the age of 20 are the most prone to fireworks injuries; however, the risk of serious injury or even death still exists for anyone within close proximity of fireworks or other pyrotechnics. Some common fireworks injuries and hazards include burns, lacerations, loss of limbs, residential fires and wrongful death. Parental supervision is essential when legal fireworks are being used. Never allow young children to set-off or play with fireworks or hazardous objects. It is also important to never throw or point fireworks at another individual. To learn more about how you can help prevent serious injuries related to fireworks this Fourth of July holiday, please refer to the CPSC’s website for consumer fireworks safety tips.
The Portland personal injury attorneys at Shulman DuBois LLC hope that consumers stay safe during the Independence Day holiday. Take every necessary precaution to protect yourself and others this Fourth of July.
As of the date we posted this blog, Shulman DuBois LLC does not represent any of the parties. If you are mentioned in this article and believe you may need legal help, please contact us or another reputable law firm. Oregon law firms specializing in personal injury, including us, will provide free and confidential consultations, so do not hesitate to call and ask questions.
