More than 11,000 fireworks-related injuries happen in the u-s every year, causing an estimated 2,000 eye injuries. Here are some important eye safety tips for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.
Fireworks injuries occur most often among boys in their teenage years. But they can happen to anyone. Eye injuries caused by fireworks can be minor, such as corneal abrasion — or a scratch on the surface of the eye. But they can also be very serious, especially when high-velocity projectiles are involved — such as bottle rockets.
"These are devices that are put in usually a pop bottle and lit and then they fly off erratically. They are so powerful that they can cause the eye to rupture or damage it in such a way that vision is lost," says Thomas Weingeist, M.D., head of UI Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences department.
Eye care specialists recommend that you observe a professionally staged, public fireworks display. If you do set off your own fireworks, avoid bottle rockets.
"I’ve seen children who have not only lost an eye but who have lost fingers. There are countless fires in houses and fields caused by fireworks. The best thing is to observe them professionally," he says.
Fireworks cause about six percent of all serious eye injuries. Eye care experts believe basic safety tips can help reduce the injuries and vision loss caused by fireworks.
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For more information:
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Thomas Weingeist, M.D.
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