Staying Safe During Summer in Maine: Tips for Avoiding Injuries at Fairs, Fireworks, and Outdoor Events
Maine’s summer season brings with it an abundance of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes and lakeside barbecues to lively county fairs and dazzling fireworks displays. While these events are part of what makes summer in Maine so special, they also present a unique set of risks that can lead to serious personal injuries if safety is overlooked.
At Peter Thompson & Associates, we have represented countless individuals and families whose summer plans took a tragic turn due to preventable accidents. As a Maine-based personal injury law firm, we want to help residents and visitors alike enjoy the season safely. Below, we share important safety tips and legal insights to help you and your loved ones avoid accidents this summer.
Fireworks: Festive but Dangerous
Fireworks are a Fourth of July staple across Maine, lighting up the night sky in places like Portland, Bangor, and small towns in between. However, fireworks also contribute to thousands of injuries nationwide each year. In Maine, recent incidents have involved both professional displays and personal use gone wrong.
Safety Tips:
- Leave fireworks to professionals. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public show conducted by trained pyrotechnicians.
- If using consumer fireworks (legal in parts of Maine), always follow local ordinances and manufacturer instructions.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance and never allow unsupervised handling of fireworks.
- Have water or a fire extinguisher nearby, and never relight a “dud” firework.
Legal Insight: If you or a loved one is injured by a fireworks-related accident—whether due to malfunctioning products or negligent operation at a public event—you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Property owners, event organizers, and manufacturers may all bear liability in such cases.
County Fairs and Amusement Rides: Fun with a Side of Risk
Maine’s beloved county fairs—such as the Fryeburg Fair, Skowhegan State Fair, and Bangor State Fair—draw thousands of attendees each year. While most visitors enjoy these events without incident, fairs can present real safety hazards, particularly when it comes to amusement rides, animal interactions, and food safety.
Safety Tips:
- Inspect amusement rides before letting children on. Look for posted safety certificates and observe whether staff are attentive and trained.
- Follow all ride rules, including height and weight restrictions.
- Watch for slippery or uneven walking surfaces, especially around food courts and livestock areas.
- Use hand sanitizer after touching animals and avoid consuming undercooked food.
Legal Insight: Injuries at fairs may result from negligence on the part of ride operators, food vendors, or event organizers. If faulty maintenance, improper supervision, or unsafe conditions contributed to your injury, it’s crucial to seek legal advice immediately.
Water Activities: Know Before You Go
Maine is known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and coastline, making boating, swimming, and kayaking favorite summer pastimes. Unfortunately, water-related accidents are among the most serious and often fatal incidents we see during summer months.
Safety Tips:
- Always wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating or paddleboarding.
- Never swim alone and avoid alcohol consumption before water activities.
- Watch children closely—even in shallow water—and make sure they have swim training.
- Ensure boats and watercraft are in good working condition and operated by licensed individuals.
Legal Insight: Boating accidents, including collisions and drownings, can be caused by operator negligence, defective equipment, or inadequate supervision. If you’ve been injured in a water-related incident, an experienced attorney can help determine whether someone else’s negligence played a role.
Outdoor Events and Public Gatherings: Stay Alert
From outdoor concerts to food festivals, public gatherings in Maine provide opportunities to enjoy music, art, and cuisine in the open air. But crowds, alcohol, and weather can introduce hazards ranging from slips and falls to altercations or heat exhaustion.
Safety Tips:
- Wear proper footwear and stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
- Be mindful of exits and avoid overcrowded areas where it’s difficult to move freely.
- Avoid walking while distracted, particularly in unfamiliar venues or uneven terrain.
- If alcohol is served, drink responsibly and plan ahead for safe transportation.
Legal Insight: If you’re injured at a public event, you may be entitled to compensation if organizers failed to provide a reasonably safe environment. This includes not only physical hazards but also inadequate security or emergency planning.
When Accidents Happen, Know Your Rights
While no one wants to imagine an accident occurring during summer fun, the reality is that injuries do happen. If you or a family member is harmed due to someone else’s negligence—whether at a fairground, fireworks display, public event, or waterfront—Peter Thompson & Associates is here to help.
With decades of experience and a track record of successful verdicts and settlements, our attorneys understand how to investigate injury claims, identify responsible parties, and fight for the compensation our clients deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact Us Today
Enjoy all that summer in Maine has to offer—but do it safely. And if you ever find yourself injured due to another’s carelessness, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Call Peter Thompson & Associates at 207-874-0909 to schedule a free consultation.
Let us help you get back on your feet—and back to enjoying summer in Vacationland.