The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted all areas of life, including how we celebrate our favorite holidays. Like Easter, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day, this year’s Fourth of July will be quite different from what we’re used to. There will be no parades, and, with the exception of Southaven’s annual show, no public fireworks displays. But no official celebrations does not mean no fireworks at all. In fact, if the increased noise levels over the past few weeks are any indication, we should prepare for more fireworks in residential communities.

Given the restlessness we’ve all experienced from stay-at-home orders, many folks are searching for an outlet. It appears some have turned to fireworks. If you’ve observed more fireworks activity than usual in recent weeks, you’re not imagining it. Metropolitan areas across America have seen significant upticks in fireworks-related noise complaints. Memphis and Shelby County are no exception. From June 18–22 in 2019, the Memphis Police Department received eight fireworks-related noise complaints. By comparison, they received at least 238 such complaints this year, an increase of 2,875%.

Thinking about setting off fireworks? Think again.

My advice, as a Memphis personal injury lawyer, and as a member of this community, is to be especially cautious with your Fourth of July celebrations. We’re all doing our best to celebrate under difficult circumstances, but it’s technically illegal to set off fireworks in Memphis without a permit. On top of that, they can be quite dangerous. Please consider these statistics.

  • In 2018, fireworks were involved in over 9,000 emergency room visits.
  • Of those 9,000 visits, 62% happened from June 22 to July 22.
  • Fireworks can get as hot as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • 50% of fireworks-related injuries from this critical time period are typically burns.

Sparklers aren’t a safe alternative.

Sparklers are the most common form of fireworks used by young children. They are also among the most dangerous. At 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, sparklers can permanently damage a child’s skin. For safety, they should be kept at a distance from the face and body, which is hard for a young kid to do. Instead, try glow sticks, silly string, or bubbles, which offer the same fun without the hazards.

Talk to a Memphis personal injury lawyer.

If you experience an injury where another person’s negligence was a factor—fireworks-related or not—you could be entitled to recover compensation for damages.

Speak with a Memphis personal injury lawyer to find out if you have a case. Call (901) 327-2100 or contact us here today.