The majority of Americans celebrate the Fourth of July and other holidays with friends and family, enjoying the outdoors, and setting off fireworks. But if these pyrotechnics are mishandled, injuries can be severe. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries and deaths from fireworks have increased by approximately 25 percent in the past decade. On average, 11,000 people, mostly under the age of 25, are injured in pyrotechnics-related incidents every year.
If you’re injured by fireworks in Kansas City or elsewhere in Missouri, you may be unsure of your legal rights. You might also wonder if you can file a claim for compensation if some other party was responsible for the fireworks accident. First, it’s vital to seek prompt medical care for your injuries. From there, consult a Kansas City-area personal injury lawyer as soon as you can who can answer your questions and help you seek justice.
Fireworks Injuries Stats
How to Treat Burns From Fireworks
Remove the injured person from the fireworks area safely and as soon as possible. Treat the firework burn for at least 20 minutes with cool water— you use ice water or ice, you may do more harm. Also, avoid putting anything oily or creamy on the burn. Then, cover the wound with a clean, dry, non-stick bandage.
Do not, under any circumstances, burst the blisters on a burn. By popping and tearing off a blister, germs have an easier, far more accessible route into the wound.
Should I Go to the Hospital If I’m Injured by Fireworks?
In general, if your wound or cut is larger than your palm, you might need to seek a second opinion or additional examination from a medical professional. And if your burn develops near the eyes, nose, ears, toes, and fingers, regardless of size, a health care practitioner should be consulted right away, since the injury may become a more serious problem. Finally, if you see indications of an infected wound (e.g., increasing pain, streaking redness, and fever), you should consult a doctor.
In the meantime, to relieve pain, most patients with burns may take over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen. There are other topical pain treatments available, such as burn-free wipes, which include a slight dosage of numbing medicine. Always follow the instructions on the box of your pain reliever drugs.
As the wound heals, make certain not to peel off or pick at the wound. Sunblock may help decrease scarring by protecting the fresh skin behind the scab.
When Might You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?
If a medical exam indicates that your injuries are more severe than anticipated, it might be time to contact a Kansas City fireworks injury lawyer. This helps ensure that you have proper legal guidance to investigate who might be liable for your injuries and better your chances of recovering compensation for your losses. Fortunately, you may be able to find resources to assist you during your rehabilitation.