Such incidents involving fireworks are quite common in Illinois. In the previous year, as per the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s office, there were 108 injuries due to fireworks mishaps. The victims included a suburban man almost dying because he looked into an inactive firework tube and another man in his early thirties who died near Rockford while igniting fireworks. A young suburban man lost an eye and sustained severe facial injuries due to firework accidents. Also, in 2017, a man from Chicago died while putting together a July Fourth children’s firework show.
Illinois Celebrates Fourth of July with Grand Fireworks Show
A substantial number of people witnessed an impressive firework display on the night of Independence Day in Chicago’s suburbs. The event took place at Hamilton Lakes, west of Chicago O’Hare International Airport for its 27th consecutive year. As stated by Itasca Mayor Jeff Pruyn, they spent $110,000 for this event which boosts local economy significantly thanks to tripling the village’s population during this time.
Fireworks Mishaps Across America on July fourth
Nationwide reports indicated several injuries and fatalities due to mismanagement of fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations this year.
Notable casualties include,
- Illinois, Fatalities included a 34yearold from Chicago and a 25-year-old LaSalle resident died from mishandling fireworks.
- South Carolina, A 41-year-old man tragically died after placing a firework on his head.
- Alabama, A 20-year-old Harvest citizen lost his life due to a firework accident in Madison County.
Firework Accident Reports for 2024, furthermore, several injuries were also reported including,
- Alabama, A show worker got injured in Jacksonville leading to cancellation of the local event.
- Colorado, one man lost most of his hand from a firework blast.
- Oklahoma, Fireworks injuries were sustained by a 10-year-old boy.
- Utah, many people suffered injuries from a fireworks ceremony at Brigham Young University.
Fireworks Safety Advice
The National Safety Council advises everyone to enjoy public professional displays and provides tips for home users,
* Don’t use illegal fireworks.
* Children should not use fireworks.
* Don’t use fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
* Always wear protection for your eyes.
* Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
* Only set off fireworks away from flammable materials, houses, and people.
* Keep water available in case you need to douse an accidental fire.
Rising Fireworks Sales
In both 2022 and 2023, a record-breaking revenue exceeding $2.7 billion each year was observed in the American Pyrotechnics Association’s data. This booming industry leads to discussions about increasing freedoms regarding fireworks usage for residents and enhancing possible income opportunities.
Professional Displays Recommended Over DIY Fireworks Shows
Illinois officials advise safety first when it comes to fireworks. The Fire Marshal and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources discourage the use of amateur fireworks shows due to their danger, as shown by the 12,264 fires caused by fireworks in 2021 according to the National Fire Protection Association. In 2023, there were 108 injuries attributed to different types of firework devices with mortars leading the list. Handheld equipment like sparklers and bottle rockets pose a particular danger especially to kids.
Legal Mandates for Display Fireworks
The Illinois Explosives Act outlines rules for anyone handling display fireworks. It requires licenses and storage certificates to handle display fireworks. Violators face stiff penalties including felony charges, fines, and imprisonment. It’s important that everyone understands and abides by these laws in order to prevent firework related accidents.
Ultimately, while Independence Day celebrations often include impressive firework displays, safety must always be a priority. Everyone can contribute to a successful holiday celebration free from accidents if they follow guidelines and leave firework displays in credible professional hands.
As demand for such festive products rises so does their associated risks highlighting once more that diligent adherence to safety protocol is key.
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