As fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, it’s important to follow proper safety measures to protect your vision.
Over 9,000 people are sent to the emergency room due to firework-related injuries, with 15% of those being eye injuries. The National Safety Council and the Consumer Product Safety Commission encourage the public to leave fireworks up to the experts, but if you choose to buy consumer fireworks, follow these safety tips to protect your eyes:
When to Seek Medical Help
The American Academy of Ophthalmology declares any eye injury caused by a firework a medical emergency. Firework-related eye injuries can include blunt force trauma, heat burns, and chemical exposure. If an eye-related injury does occur, take the following steps to prevent further damage:
Enjoy the Show
If you plan to attend a professional fireworks display, make sure to:
If you choose to celebrate this holiday with fireworks at home, make sure to follow the safety measures before use. It’s important to note that the best way to avoid a potentially blinding fireworks injury is by attending professional, public firework shows rather than purchasing fireworks for at-home use.