This Fourth of July, whether you’re holding a cookout and fireworks display at your house or taking your boat out on the river, there are several important safety tips you should keep in mind. While all three of the activities mentioned above are fun national pastimes on this holiday, it is imperative that you do what you can to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Here are some common safety questions you may have:
How can I tell if my boat is safe?
If you are going out on your boat, there are several things you should check before putting yourself and others at risk. A boat has lots of working parts, so you must ensure they are all in tip-top shape before setting out. Here are some of the things you should look for:
- Ensure the through-hull connections are not leaking
- Check for serious scrapes on the hull
- Look for signs of blade pitting
- If the boat is in the water, check to make sure the vessel is not taking on water
- You should have working flares and an operating manual for the boat radio, engine, and more
- Ensure the anchor is attached to the boat and has a sufficient length of ground tackle
- Some of the essential documents you must have onboard are: an updated registration decal, Certificate of Number, owner contact information, accident report form, marine towing membership card, and vessel registration
How may I prepare for a safe Fourth of July fireworks display?
- Steer clear of any fireworks wrapped in brown paper–these are professional grade
- Always have a capable adult present
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area
- Keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher on standby
- Do not let children get a hold of fireworks, whether they are lit, unlit, or were already used
- Keep your pets inside
- Before lighting fireworks, ensure everyone else is a safe distance away
- Wear protective glasses
- Always soak fireworks in water before throwing them away
- Never try to make your own fireworks
Contact our New Jersey firm
If you or someone you know has been involved in a Fourth of July accident–whether it be on a boat, in a swimming pool, or during a fireworks display, it so important that you contact a knowledgeable, trustworthy attorney today. If you believe your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence to follow any of the necessary safety precautions above, then you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation may help you recover the cost of any medical bills, lost wages, in-home care and more.
Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel in New Jersey, please contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.
