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Fourth of July Safety

by McAleer Law Firm

We’ve all heard the stories, like the one time crazy Aunt Sara set her dress on fire with the sparklers. You may also laugh about last summer when Frodo, the sweet and spunky Dachshund, somehow snatched a lit bottle rocket from the ground and dashed in circles around the park, rocket exploding all the while.

There really is nothing quite like Fourth of July celebrations to remind you how great it is to be an American, but amid the festivities, accidents can happen. Between the gathering of family and friends, never-ending buffets of grilled hotdogs, and the nighttime fireworks spectacle, it may be easy to let your guard down and relax in the summer sun. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with traditional Independence Day activities.

Driving is known to be especially dangerous this weekend, and there’s also a booming threat all around us – fireworks.

Many states legally sell all kinds of fireworks, from handheld sparklers even children can play with, to larger, more dangerous products. While Georgia currently only allows the purchase of the smaller sparklers and non-explosives, it is all too easy to travel a few hours away and splurge on more dangerous fireworks. If you plan to host your own fireworks display, it is important to take into consideration the many ways a show can go wrong, and how you can protect your friends and family from an accident.

It is highly recommended that you attend a professional show over creating your own, but if you must do it yourself, take steps to ensure an entertaining and safe time for the whole family. Here’s a list of tips from the Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.

  • Always read and follow label directions
  • Only use fireworks outdoors
  • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks
  • Only light one firework at a time
  • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
  • Fireworks should only be used with close adult supervision
  • Never give fireworks to small children
  • Be sure to have water handy
  • Never throw fireworks at another person
  • Remember to call 911 in case of emergencies

By following these precautions, you can celebrate the holiday in a way that keeps everyone entertained and safe. Remember to always keep children and pets close by and out of harms way. Fireworks can be a blast, but should always be treated with care. Happy Fourth of July! We at McAleer Law hope you have a fun and safe holiday!

About McAleer Law:

McAleer Law—Decatur, Georgia’s preeminent personal injury, worker’s compensation, and Social Security Disability firm—has been representing plaintiffs and injured workers for more than ten years. Specializing in lost wage, medical expense, pain/suffering, lost quality of life, and psychological injury cases, founder Charles McAleer guarantees his clients personal attention, diligence, and unparalleled service quality. McAleer also hosts a weekly radio show at 9 a.m. on News and Talk 1380 WAOK, bringing listeners sound legal advice, breaking news, current events, and other topics important to the Atlanta community. For more information on Charles McAleer and the McAleer Law Firm visit www.McAleerLaw.com, “like” McAleer Law on Facebook, or follow @McAleerLawFirm on Twitter.

by McAleer Law Firm
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