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Fireworks over a bridge

Fireworks Eye Safety

Consumer fireworks can be dangerous. According to recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), injuries from fireworks cause approximately 9,100 visits to the emergency room each year, with 19% of those injuries being eye-related.

Children and young adults are frequent victims. According to the CPSC report, children age 15 and under accounted for 36% of the total injuries, and half of the injuries requiring an emergency room visit were to individuals age 20 or younger.

Children and individuals not handling fireworks themselves are in as much danger as the people actually lighting fireworks.

For those who use consumer fireworks, below are some safety tips:

  • Do not allow young children to play with fireworks. Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and should not be handled by young children. Older children should be permitted to use fireworks only under close adult supervision.
  • Set off fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from houses, dry leaves, grass and other flammable materials.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that fail to ignite or explode.
  • Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning or "dud" fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
  • Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
  • Never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
  • Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
  • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
  • Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.

sparklerWhat to Do for a Fireworks Eye Injury

In the most severe cases, fireworks can rupture the globe of the eye, cause chemical and thermal burns, corneal abrasions and retinal detachment, all of which can cause permanent eye damage and vision loss. If an eye injury from fireworks occurs, it should be considered a medical emergency.

  • Seek medical attention immediately.
  • Do not rub your eyes.
  • Do not rinse your eyes.
  • Do not apply pressure.

The Eye Institute (TEI) offers a variety of diagnostic and treatment services including emergency care for eye injuries that require immediate attention. Current patients of TEI can report to TEI’s Emergency Service during regular business hours. If emergency care is required after hours, patients who have had an exam in the past three years can call 215.604.4323.