The 4th of July is right around the corner and fireworks safety is one of the most talked about issues during the holiday. Aside from properly extinguishing used fireworks and teaching children about maintaining a safe distance from them, the exploding light show is a favorite American past time. But what happens when the actual firework is compromised?
There have been multiple fireworks brands whose products were recalled due to a violation of federal standards as they increase the chances of explosion and burn hazards.
In this article we will be discussing some past firework recalls as well as updated safety statistics.
The U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that fireworks injuries are up 25% over the past 15 years. Here are some interesting findings from their recent report.
Furthermore, in 2021, the CPSC found that approximately 31 percent of the fireworks tested were found to contain “noncompliant fireworks”. The violations consisted of fuse violations, presence of prohibited chemicals, and pyrotechnic materials overload.
Fireworks Emergency Room Visits (Estimated, 2006 – 2021)
Below is an estimated accounting of emergency room visits related to firework injury accidents from 2006 – 2021.
There is a statistically significant increasing trend in the fireworks-related injury estimates from 2006 through 2021.
The aforementioned chart shows an increase of about 274 injuries per year. In calendar year 2021, there were an estimated 11,500 fireworks-related, emergency department-treated injuries. There were an estimated 15,600 such injuries in 2020.
Types of Fireworks That Cause Injuries
Most Common Firework Injuries
Hands and fingers were associated with an estimated 2,600 injuries. These were followed by an estimated 1,800 head/face/ear region injuries; 1,300 leg injuries; 1,200 eye injuries; 800 trunk/other injuries; and 700 arm injuries.
“Other” diagnoses accounted for 2,800 estimated injuries and were the most frequent diagnosis. Burns were associated with 2,700 estimated injuries, contusions and lacerations were associated with 1,800 estimated injuries, and fractures and sprains accounted for the remaining 1,100 estimated injuries.
What Causes Firework Injuries
The most common reasons for firework injuries are listed below:
- Malfunction
- Errant Flightpath
- Early Detonation
- Tip Over
- Misuse
- Improper Preparation
Firework Recalls
Johnson//Becker firework lawyers have included some information on past firework recalls. Interestingly, the last fireworks recall was posted in 2019.
If you are interested in viewing a list of Firework recalls, please visit the CPSC website by clicking here.
Questions About a Firework Injury Lawsuit or Fireworks Recall? Contact a Johnson//Becker Lawyer for a Free Case Review.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective or malfunctioning firework, you may want to speak with the lawyers at Johnson//Becker. We are actively filing new firework lawsuits across the country, and you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries.
We offer a Free Case Evaluation. Please contact us using the form below or by calling us at (800) 279-6386. We would be honored to speak with you and respond promptly to every inquiry we receive.
Free Case Evaluation
To contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (800) 279-6386.