Hip Hip Hooray! It's almost Independence Day!

On this day, 246 years ago, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Its signers boldly risked their lives and fortunes in order to create a new and independent country out of The Thirteen Colonies. Today, our nation remains indebted to those brave men.

It is said that we owe our Fourth of July traditions to one of them, John Adams, who wrote to his wife, Abigail, in 1776, stating that he believed the day "will be celebrated, by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival...with pomp and parade, with...games, sports...bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward, forevermore."

Hence, we have our tradition of celebrating the day with fireworks, parties, and all sorts of merry-making.

While it is appropriate to honor the day with all sorts of revelry, our communities need to be aware of the recent cautions issued by a variety of government agencies; among them the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). In its new report, it cited a significant increase in the number of people injured during this holiday in the last 15 years. Injuries rose 25% in the United States between 2006 and 2021. Last year alone, nine people died and 11,500 were injured in fireworks incidents. According to the CPSC Chair, Alex Hoehn-Saric, "It's imperative that consumers know the risks involved in using fireworks, so injuries and tragedies can be prevented. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch the professional displays."

Here in New York State, people may legally buy and use only one category of consumer fireworks: Sparkling Devices. A number of counties, however, have enacted laws even prohibiting their sale and use due to their potential for causing injury. Sparklers, as they are commonly known, burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit--hot enough to melt metal. They are ground-based or handheld devices that produce colored sparks, crackling noises, and smoke. All other types of consumer fireworks are illegal throughout New York State. These include firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners, and aerial devices.

Injuring yourself or a loved one are not the only risks associated with the use of consumer fireworks. There have been many incidents of homes set on fire. The ramifications for the responsible individuals are often severe, and include prosecution for reckless endangerment, arson, and the unlawful possession of fireworks. This was the case in 2021 for a Moira, New York man whose fireworks set a camper ablaze. Moreover, insurance companies may not cover the damages or medical liability claims resulting from the use of illegal fireworks, or even legal ones if they are used irresponsibly.

There are many ways to celebrate this great country on July 4th. Make your celebration a safe one.

Happy Fourth of July!