Sizzling Facts about Fireworks

July 4^th in South Carolina Brings Fun and Fireworks

Fireworks and sparklers are a traditional staple of the 4^th of July. It would be hard to imagine a 4^th of July celebration without them. Fireworks are not just used for American celebrations but are used all over the world. The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) found that fireworks first came about in China as it was believed the first natural firecrackers were bamboo stalks that would create a loud explosion when thrown into a fire; but it was the Europeans that adopted fireworks for entertainment purposes.

Types of Fireworks

As fireworks were developed over the centuries they fell into several categories, or classifications, of use. Consumer Fireworks (Class C fireworks) are fireworks that can be bought at stores for the public to use. Display Fireworks (Class B fireworks) are the types of fireworks used in large displays and fireworks shows that are not available to the public for purchase and are only operated by licensed professionals (APA). Unfortunately, thousands of people each year are injured by both types of fireworks.

Fireworks Injuries in 2021

A study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that in 2021, 11,500 people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries sustained from fireworks, nine deaths were caused by fireworks, and 1,100 injuries occurred from sparklers (CPSC). There has been a 25% increase in fireworks injuries from 2006 to 2021 and the CPSC also found that young adults had the most firework-related emergency room injuries throughout 2021. While fireworks are entertaining and fun, they can also be dangerous and deadly.

Fireworks can be dangerous for numerous reasons: improper usage, malfunctions, or having non-compliant components. The legal limit of explosive material in consumer fireworks (Class C) is 1.4G or 50 mg. For size comparison, there should not be more than half an aspirin tablet’s worth of explosive material in any one firework. Any amount more than that is illegal (APA). Unfortunately, illegal fireworks are more common than one might realize. Legal fireworks always have a manufacturer’s label on the packaging as well as warning labels. They also include instructions for proper operating use. Fireworks missing this crucial information are likely illegal and should be reported to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. However, Cherry Bombs, M80’s, M100’s, and Silver Salutes are always illegal fireworks and highly dangerous (APA).

Safety Measures for Fireworks

Given the growing number of fireworks-related injuries each year, here are some safety precautions you can take to ensure you are not among the injured.

• Never allow children to operate and use fireworks or sparklers without parental supervision
• Keep a hose or a bucket of water close by in case of a fire or other accident
• Set fireworks off one at a time and maintain a safe distance away from the fireworks
• Never point or throw fireworks or sparklers at someone else
• After using the fireworks, soak them in water before throwing it away to prevent any trash fires
• Never use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Whether you are setting off your own fireworks, twirling around sparklers with friends, or watching a fireworks show, injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Be aware this 4^th of July and use caution when dealing with fireworks. If you or a loved one is injured by fireworks, call our personal injury attorneys to schedule a free consultation. We have three office locations in Charleston, Goose Creek, and Summerville. To learn more visit steinberglawfirm.com or call us at (843) 720-2800.