Baby, it’s a firework, but take care

1 November 2013

Baby, it’s a firework, but take care so you don’t go boom, boom, boom!

It’s well known that Guy Fawkes met a grisly end back in 1606, but celebrating his demise has also proved perilous for plenty of Kiwis in more recent times.

Last year, ACC received around 445 claims where fireworks were mentioned in the accident description. Around 213 of these claims were for injuries that happened between November 2 and 5 inclusive (when fireworks were on sale).

The total cost to date of firework-related claims received in 2012 is around $191,785.

Unsurprisingly, most firework-related injuries in 2012 were burns, which resulted in around 285 claims.

Soft tissue injuries, such as bruises, strains and sprains, were also common, leading to around 62 claims. This suggests coming into contact with a lit firework isn’t the only injury risk – Kiwis also need to take care of slipping or colliding with something as they move away after lighting fireworks.

ACC’s General Manager of Insurance and Prevention Services, John Beaglehole, says a little common sense can go a long way towards preventing injuries when celebrating Guy Fawkes.

“Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure fireworks are stable, and light them well away from people and buildings. And keep an eye on your kids.”

Mr Beaglehole also says that fireworks and alcohol aren’t a good mix.

“If you’re enjoying a beer or wine on Guy Fawkes night, it’s probably best to have a designated non-drinking person in charge of letting off the fireworks.”

Recent claim statistics

Firework related claims:

2008 – 410 claims

2009 – 463 claims

2010 – 400 claims

2011 – 440 claims

2012 – 445 claims

ENDS

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