Independence Day is right around the corner when family and friends gather to attend picnics, engage in sporting events, and enjoy each other's company. Unfortunately, it seems that every Fourth of July we read about accidents involving fireworks where people get seriously injured or, in some cases, even die.

Connecticut fireworks laws, which can be found at Connecticut General Statutes Sections 29 – 356 and 29 – 357 provide that the following items can be sold, purchased or used by a person who is at least 16 years of age: sparklers; and fountains both of which are defined by the statute. Prohibited items include but are not limited to the following: firecrackers; bottle rockets; Roman candles; fireworks containing any explosive or flammable compound; and other items set forth in the statute.

If you plan on using legal fireworks you should follow basic safety measures which would include some or all of the following:

• A responsible adult should supervise the lighting of any fireworks
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix well and should be avoided together
• Make sure that all fireworks are discharged in a safe area
• Wear safety goggles
• Do not re-light fireworks
• Do not experiment or make homemade fireworks
• Have a hose that is turned on near the area where you are lighting off the fireworks
• Be very careful in the storage and transportation of fireworks
• Use common sense and follow all laws regarding their use.

If you are seriously injured as a result of some type of fireworks accident you should know that Connecticut law recognizes the doctrine of strict liability for dangerous activities which would include the use of fireworks. If you or someone you know has been seriously injured as a result of a Connecticut fireworks accident then you should contact an experienced Connecticut personal injury attorney as soon as possible. There are a number of things which you should be doing right away and there are other things that you should never be doing. You need to find out what you need to do to properly develop your case before you make a mistake in attempting to handle your own fireworks injury case.

Our Connecticut accident attorneys represent individuals who have been seriously injured in fireworks accidents. Please contact us today to see how we can help you. We take these cases on a contingency fee basis and advance the costs to develop your case so you do not have to come up with any money out of pocket to hire our experienced Connecticut personal injury attorneys.

Above all be safe this Fourth of July! Have fun and watch out for each other.