Fireworks are a popular show piece at many parties, events and celebrations throughout the year, which unfortunately also means that many people are exposed to the risk of injury.
Around 1000 people a year are injured by fireworks, which can cause severe burning injuries, often resulting in the need for operations and leaving prominent scarring.
The most common firework injuries are caused by rockets, air bombs and sparklers. A rocket can reach 150 miles an hour, a shell can go as high as 200 metres and a sparkler can reach temperatures of 2000 degrees Celsius.
Fireworks are a popular show piece at many parties, events and celebrations throughout the year, which unfortunately also means that many people are exposed to the risk of injury.
Around 1000 people a year are injured by fireworks, which can cause severe burning injuries, often resulting in the need for operations and leaving prominent scarring.
The most common firework injuries are caused by rockets, air bombs and sparklers. A rocket can reach 150 miles an hour, a shell can go as high as 200 metres and a sparkler can reach temperatures of 2000 degrees Celsius.
Accidents can occur anywhere from local firework displays in pubs and parks to private parties for families and friends, at religious celebrations and at weddings.
Fireworks must not be sold to anyone under the age of 18, and sparklers should not be given to anyone under the age of 5. It is illegal for bangers and air bombs and mini-rockets to be sold and all fireworks sold should bare the British Standards mark.
It is vital that spectators to any firework show must stand the recommended safe distance away of 5 to 8 metres for garden fireworks and 25 metres for display fireworks. People should stand away from any firework being lit. Any firework which fails to go off should not be approached.
We have experience in dealing with injury claims arising from fireworks; for example we are currently dealing with a claim where a stray firework struck a woman in the neck whilst in the middle of a crowd, also injuring a young girl, and another claim where a rocket which failed in its ascent hit a young boy and burnt the skin on his forehead. Please click here to see the case studies.
It is important that you and your family are kept safe during any firework event; however, if you or a family member is unfortunate enough to be injured by a firework then you may be able to make a claim. It is important that you get independent expert legal advice, preferably as soon as possible from one of our specialist lawyers.
If you think you may have a claim, contact our specialist personal injury lawyers for immediate advice. Call Actons Injury Solicitors free on 08081 355 355 or click here to start your claim now.
Posted on October 31, 2012