Every year, millions of Americans look forward to celebrating Independence Day with family, friends, and, of course, fireworks. Fireworks can be a beautiful way to mark the occasion, but it's important to remember that they can also be extremely dangerous. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, firework-related injuries send around 9,000 people to the emergency room every year. Today, we're going to talk about fireworks and eye injury prevention, so you can have a fun and safe Fourth of July.
Are Fireworks Really Dangerous?
The short answer is yes. Fireworks can cause serious injuries, including burns, lacerations, and eye damage. Eye injuries are some of the most common fireworks-related injuries, and they can range from minor scratches and bruises to total blindness. It's important to understand that even fireworks that seem harmless, like sparklers, can cause serious injuries.
Your Fireworks Safety Checklist
Here's a checklist of things you can do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while celebrating with fireworks this Fourth of July:
- Follow local laws and regulations regarding fireworks. Many areas prohibit certain types of fireworks, so be sure to check before you buy.
- Only purchase fireworks from reputable sellers, and never attempt to make your own.
- Always have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of an accident.
- Keep a safe distance between yourself and the fireworks.
- Never aim fireworks at another person, and never re-light a "dud" firework.
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from sparks and debris.
- Supervise children closely if they are using fireworks, and never let them hold sparklers.
- If you've been consuming alcohol, stay away from fireworks. Alcohol can impair your judgment and make it harder to stay safe.
If an Accident Does Happen
Even if you take all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. If someone is injured from a firework, the first step is to seek medical attention immediately. If the injured person has something in their eye, don't try to remove it yourself. Cover the eye with a sterile or clean cloth and seek help from a medical professional. It's also a good idea to keep a first aid kit nearby in case of minor injuries.
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our country's independence, but it's also important to celebrate safely. By following our safety checklist and being prepared for accidents, you can have a great time with your loved ones while keeping everyone protected from eye injuries and other dangers. Remember, fireworks can be beautiful and exciting, but they should always be treated with respect and caution.
Lentz Eye Care wishes you a safe and happy 4th of July!