Before You Light The Fuse: Know The Dangers Of Fireworks

Fireworks are illegal in Connecticut. There are a few fireworks-like items that can be used like sparklers and fountains, but they are technically not classified as fireworks and can be sold to anyone over the age of 16 years-old. Any other fireworks are considered illegal in Connecticut and those that light them off may be fined or jailed.

Even with this information in mind, the state of Connecticut often sees a host of fireworks displays that are conducted by private individuals who are risking legal prosecution and maybe worse, personal injury to dazzle their neighbors and friends with their own fireworks display. It is in this instance when many injuries take place and could lead to a New Haven personal injury case.

Keeping that in mind, if you are going to participate in this risky behavior or are going to attend a private party where fireworks are going to be lit and showcased, you should know some dos and don’ts of fireworks safety so at a minimum you can reduce your risk of becoming injured at the hands of an amateur pyrotechnic.

1. Don’t ever allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. The decision making required to safely ignite a firework often comes with maturity and children do not have the maturity necessary to make good choices when something may go wrong while they are igniting a firework.
2. Don’t attempt to re-ignite a firework or pick it up once it has been lit. This is an incredibly dangerous activity to partake in and can cause serious harm and injury to multiple body parts including serious burns or worse.
3. Do keep a bucket of water handy in the event that a firework goes off in a direction you weren’t anticipating and something catches on fire. A bucket of water will help douse any flame that is caused and will allow you to avert disaster in the event that a fire is started.
4. Do light fireworks one at a time and always back away from them once they are lit. Lighting multiple fireworks can put you in a dangerous situation if one of them ignites faster then you expect and you are still in the area when it goes off.

There is nothing more festive than an incredible fireworks display to help celebrate holidays like the 4th of July, but if you do not follow the law and light off your own fireworks display you could be putting yourself or others at risk of injury. Fireworks in the state of Connecticut are illegal. If you attend a fireworks display and are injured you may require the help of an attorney to review your situation and help you with your New Haven personal injury claim. Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will review your situation and work with you to protect your long-term interests.