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Five tips for fireworks safety
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The Fourth of July is prime time for do-it-yourself fireworks, but as the holiday approaches, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is warning users to follow safe practices to reduce injury possibilities.
Approximately 10,000 people are treated for fireworks-related injuries in the emergency department each year, according to a press release from the AAO. These injuries include damaged corneas and retinas, ruptured eyeballs, along with burns, cuts and bruises.
“Consumer fireworks are a treasured part of Fourth of July celebrations, so it’s easy to forget the dangers they can pose, particularly to the eyes,” Dianna L. Seldomridge, MD, an AAO clinical spokesperson, said in the release.
The organization offers the following tips to maximizing safe fireworks handling:
- Wear protective eyewear while lighting fireworks: Every house should have at least one pair of ANSI-approved protective eyewear, which can be purchased at any hardware store.
- Do not pick up duds and misfires: A hose and buckets of water should be kept on hand to deal with duds and misfires. Use a shovel to pick them up and fully submerge them in water.
- Keep a safe distance: Many injuries occur because people are too close to the fireworks. Staying as far away as possible is the best option.
- Supervise all children around any fireworks: This includes sparklers, and even poppers can cause a lot of damage. Watch all children closely when handling any type of fireworks.
- Opt for a professional fireworks show: The safest fireworks show is one put on by professionals.