Every year, people suffer serious eye injuries from backyard fireworks displays. Most of the victims are children and bystanders located nowhere near the pyrotechnics. As Independence Day nears, the Florida Society of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Ophthalmology are working to dispel the myths that put people at risk of blindness.
“Most people just don’t see the harm in sparklers, spinners, firecrackers and bottle rockets, and they learn too late the necessity of wearing eye protection,” said Dianna Seldomridge, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “It’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals. But if you choose to celebrate with fireworks, wear safety goggles and take all the necessary precautions to keep your family safe.”
“Last year, more than 6,000 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency rooms around the Fourth of July period and eyes are among the parts of the body most often injured,” said Megan Scott Carlton, M.D., a member of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology board and owner of Palm Valley Eye Care & Surgeons in Ponte Vedra Beach. “There are many myths surrounding consumer fireworks, and it is important to understand all the risks before deciding on how to celebrate Independence Day this year.”
Myth 1: Consumer fireworks are harmless. Reality: Fireworks can cause blinding eye injuries, such as chemical and thermal burns, corneal abrasions or retinal detachment. If you live in a state where consumer fireworks are legal and have plans to use them, wear eye protection.
Myth 2: Sparklers are made for kids and aren’t dangerous. Reality: Don’t let their small size fool you; sparklers burn at more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s hot enough to melt certain metals.
Myth 3: Duds are harmless. Reality: Malfunctioning fireworks should be handled with caution. Never look down the barrel of a firework and make sure to point it away from others. Do not try to relight faulty fireworks. Instead, soak it in water and throw the dud away.
Myth 4: Only those handling the fireworks are at risk. Reality: The majority of firework-related eye injuries happen to bystanders. Watch fireworks from at least 500 feet away and make sure everyone is wearing eye protection.
If an eye injury does occur, seek medical attention right away.
For more tips and information, go to eyesmart.org.
