Sparkler and Firework injuries on the 4th of July

The 4th of July is a fantastic, patriotic holiday. Barbecue, ball games and the beach all mark this holiday. Sparklers and fireworks are also a mainstay of this summer time event. Unique dangers come along with the use of fireworks. In 2008 alone, 8,800 people were injured from the use of fireworks according to a report published last year by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The majority of fireworks injuries occur during the month surrounding the fourth of July. Horrific injuries such as the loss of life and limb are caused by the use of fireworks. However, I would like to take this opportunity to point out a specific type danger posed to children by sparklers. As adults we do not often see sparklers as a danger. They are festive and seem innocent. Nothing could be further from the truth. A sparkler heats up between 1800-2000 degrees fahrenheit. A sparkler reaching 2000 degrees could quickly and severely burn a child or adult. In an instant a child could be permanently disfigured from a sparkler burn. Even more troubling is that many sparkler injuries occur to the eyes of children.

The Felicetti Firm is available to assist you or a loved one with a claim for injuries sustained from any type of firework.