A large chunk of fireworks injuries last year, 5,000 out of 13,000, happened “during a one week period surrounding the Fourth of July, with children age 14-years and under accounting for almost half of all injuries.” This statistic carried over to all reported injuries in the year with children 14-years and under accounting for 50 percent of reported injuries.
Amazingly 40 percent of all injuries occurred to bystanders of fireworks displays.
If you think your homeowner’s policy covers fireworks accidents you might be mistaken. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident “many insurance companies will not pay for fireworks-related claim if you have a state, county or municipality that outlaws fireworks; prohibits the type of rockets used in the incident; or your local law ordinance requires a permit and you do not have one. As a rule, insurance companies will not pay for damage if you have violated the law or if circumstances could not be deemed accidental.”
Some safety tips outlined in this article include:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned.
- Keep all fireworks away from dry grassy areas.
- Do not smoke when handling fireworks of any kind.
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