July is right around the corner and festivities during the Fourth of July can lead to eye injuries if handled improperly.
These injuries typically occur between mid-June through July.
Mishandling fireworks can cause serious burns or blindness for the user. It is reported that on average, 180 people report to the emergency room everyday for firework-related injuries.
Furthermore, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission’s annual fireworks injury report states that fireworks have caused 12 deaths and 10,000 injuries in 2019.
By following these tips, you can prevent firework-related injuries
- Read instructions on how to store and handle fireworks.
- Adults should supervise fireworks activities and never allow children to handle fireworks- Sparklers can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees and children can suffer major injuries from it.
- Set off fireworks outdoors in a clean area, away from houses, and flammable materials.
- Light fireworks one at a time, move back a safe distance immediately.
- View fireworks from at least 500 feet away.
- Do not relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or water hose close by just in case of any mishaps.
- Never carry fireworks in pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- Douse plenty of water onto any fireworks before discarding them.
If an eye-injury occurs then it is considered a medical emergency and you need to visit your nearest hospital’s emergency room! In addition, follow these tips:
- Do not rub your eyes.
- Do not rinse your eyes.
- Do not apply pressure.
- Do not remove any objects stuck in your eyes.
- Do not apply any ointments or medications unless prescribed by a doctor.
Fireworks can lead to memorable experiences, but pose a great danger to those who are unaware of the risk associated with using them. Educate yourself, and stay safe out there!
Fireworks Eye Safety – American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)
