July 2017 Fireworks and Eye Safety

Every year we celebrate Independence Day with dazzling fireworks displays either at our own homes or at community events. Even though most families take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their children from the potential dangers of fireworks, thousands still visit the emergency room every year – often with eye injuries.

To help prevent eye injuries during firework season, the American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends the following tips to help protect and preserve eyesight during the Fourth of July holiday:

• Discuss firework safety with children and teens prior to the Fourth of July holiday.
• Do not allow kids to handle fireworks and never leave them unsupervised near fireworks.
• Wear protective eyewear when lighting and handling fireworks of any kind.
• Store fireworks, matches and lighters in a secure place where children won’t find them.
• Refrain from purchasing sparklers. Heating up to 2,000 degrees or hotter, sparklers are the number one cause of firework injuries requiring trips to the emergency room.

Be aware of your surroundings and only light fireworks when family, friends and children are at a safe distance.