You may be looking forward to having a good time with your family and friends while celebrating America’s independence. Apart from outdoor barbecues and parades, you may also be excited about the fireworks. However, did you know that every 4th of July, thousands get treated at the emergency room for fireworks-related eye injuries?
Lifetime Vision Source, your trusted provider of comprehensive and contact lens exams, shares tips on preventing fireworks eye accidents to help you better enjoy the festivities.
Avoid Buying and Lighting Your Own Consumer Fireworks
Attending an organized fireworks display for the public is one of the best ways to prevent spectator eye injuries. Professional pyrotechnicians have undergone rigorous training to ensure proper and safe handling of various types of fireworks. They are also skilled when it comes to lighting and cleaning up firecrackers.
Respect Safety Barriers During a Fireworks Show
Respect safety barriers when watching a public fireworks show. Your eye doctor also advises observing a safe distance of at least 500 feet from where the fireworks are being lit. Staying clear of the fireworks grounds can lower your risk of sustaining fireworks-related eye trauma.
Be Careful With Sparklers and “Duds”
Sparklers may seem harmless because they are small. That said, their temperature can actually reach 2,000 degrees, increasing your risk of burns and other injuries. You should also never touch an unexploded or “dud” firework as they may still go off after some time. What you can do is to douse water over it before approaching and cleaning it up. Better yet, ask assistance from your local fire department.
Use Safety Eyewear
Whether you’re a licensed pyrotechnician or a fireworks spectator, you should always wear protective goggles. Your vision center recommends buying pairs that have met all the parameters set by the American National Standards Institute. Those made of polycarbonate are generally a good choice as they are highly durable and impact-resistant, reducing their risk of shattering when subjected to high amounts of pressure.
To learn more great tips on preventing fireworks-related eye injuries, you can reach us at (701) 864-3777. You may also complete our form to request an appointment. We serve Medina, Valley City and nearby ND areas.