Caveat Emptor…Let the Fireworks begin and let the users beware.

Jeffrey Kroll, Partner with Kaveny + Kroll Trial Lawyers in Chicago, cautions the veteran and novice fireworks users to help keep the holiday safe as well as fun.

“In 2017, there were @ 13,000 fireworks related injuries in the United States,” says Kroll. “Of those injuries, almost 40 % involved children under 15 years old (Consumer Product Safety Commission).” As many know, a fireworks related injury can seem as minor as a surface burn, but can also cause permanent damage, disfiguration or death.

Kroll cautions would be enthusiasts to know their local laws. In many places (such as Illinois), fireworks are illegal. “It’s not worth ruining a nice evening with family and friends by ending up on the wrong side of the law.”

Some other top tips that Kroll has witnessed of displays gone awry include:

*Avoid alcohol while handling fireworks. Common sense trumps courage.

* Never allow children to handle fireworks. Sparklers burn at a temperature of @ 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Imagine what they can do to a child’s hands or an adult’s for that matter!

*Keep pets inside.  Most animals get very agitated and frightened by the noise and commotion created by fireworks, whether they are professional or personal.  The last thing you need is your frightened dog biting an innocent child. The 4th of July also markets the #1 day of the year for runaway pets. If you have a pet that is frightened by your vacuum, you can assume that they will also be scared of fireworks. Keep them safe.

*Don’t light a firework in your hand. ‘Nuff said.

*Never relight a ‘dud’ firework (one that failed to ignite the first time).

*If you are determined and prepared to put on your own fireworks show, keep buckets of water or a hose nearby at all times.

“At the end of the day, or the 4th of July, those of us in and around Chicago and other cities, have the advantage of numerous professional and extravagant fireworks displays,” says Kroll. “Enjoy these public displays and leave the work, and the risk, to the professionals.

Jeffrey Kroll is available to speak with the media on behalf of Fireworks safety and other issues.