Many people look forward to the summer’s traditional fireworks display as families and communities celebrate a star-spangled Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and beyond . However, due to COVID-19 concerns, several public displays have been canceled these past couple of years. As a result, there will certainly be more consumer fireworks displays, as well as more firework-related injuries.
Why Are Fireworks Dangerous?
According to new data from the United States, According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), fireworks injuries result in around 9,100 emergency department visits each year, with 15 percent of those injuries being eye-related. These injuries are most common in the weeks leading up to July 4th.
While many fireworks can be harmful, different types of fireworks have the potential to be extremely dangerous. For example, small sparklers can heat up to 2,000 degrees and can inflict severe burns. Only professionals should handle fireworks, and children should never be allowed to handle them.
Mortar-type fireworks and rocket bottles, which are thrown before they explode and can harm an innocent bystander. These types of fireworks are two of the most common causes of fireworks-related injuries.
How to Prevent a Firework Eye Injury
- When watching a professional fireworks show, stand at least 500 feet away and obey all safety precautions.
- To protect yourself from an eye injury, both fireworks operators and bystanders should wear eye protection.
- When handling sparkler fireworks, protective eyewear, such as safety glasses, is a must.
- Keeping a barrier between yourself and the fireworks is another safety measure.
What to Do When You Get a Firework-Related Eye Injury
- If you get an eye injury as a result of fireworks, seek medical help right away.
- Avoid rubbing, rinsing, or putting pressure on the eyes.
- Don’t remove any foreign objects from the eye, apply ointments, or take any pain medication before seeking medical advice.
Practice safety measures during fireworks displays can help prevent catastrophic eye injuries like burns and open globe injuries, both of which can result in vision loss. Taking extra precautions to protect your eyes this summer can ensure that you can view the spectacular fireworks from public displays for many years to come.
Asheville Vision and Wellness Protective Eyewear
Every year, thousands of people are injured by fireworks, and it’s recommended to leave firework handling to the professionals while celebrating holidays like the Fourth of July and New Year’s.
At Asheville Vision and Wellness, we believe that safety glasses are an important piece of personal protective equipment for many workers, sports enthusiasts, and those who handle fireworks. Our best-selling prescription safety goggles and glasses provide you with comfortable eye protection.
We also provide eye exams, contact lenses, medical testing, eye health advice, and eye medical treatments, among other things. Please get in touch with us right away if you have any questions.