What are the Most Dangerous Fireworks?

Did you know that nationwide there are approximately 200 fireworks injuries per day between mid-June and mid-July? That alarming statistic comes from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It might be even more alarming to know that the majority of the injuries come from small firecrackers and sparklers.

You might see someone hand a child a sparkler, thinking it is harmless. However, sparklers can reach extreme temperatures, as high as 1200 degrees Fahrenheit at times. One stray spark on a child’s skin or in the eye can cause severe pain and injury. In addition, the smaller firecrackers, sometimes called “lady fingers,” are essentially a short fuse leading to a casing of gunpowder. There are annual reports of finger injuries, eye damage and hearing loss from these types of fireworks.

According to the CPSC, about eight percent of fireworks injuries require a hospital stay. The annual cost of fireworks injuries is more than $100 million. Our recent blog mentioned the types of fireworks that are legal in Florida. However, many residents still choose to purchase and use illegal fireworks in their backyard celebrations. What they fail to realize is that the larger fireworks are not meant for use in enclosed spaces. A stray explosion or spark can cause injury and even start a fire on another person’s property.

If you suffer a fireworks injury or property damage from another person’s negligence, one of your personal injury attorneys can help you. Contact our office for assistance.