According to a report by the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks caused 13,000 injuries in 2017 alone. This report also found that 14 percent of these cases are eye injuries. Eye injuries can raise blood pressure in your eyes and even cause blood loss. In severe cases, fireworks can cause abrasions and vision loss.
No matter how benign some may seem, all fireworks are dangerous when handled improperly. Even sparklers are dangerous. They cause an average of 1,200 injuries a year.
Any firework-related injury should be treated seriously. If an eye injury occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Follow these tips to lower your risk of any health-related complications.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Do not rub your eyes.
- Do not apply any pressure to your eyes.
- Do not remove any objects that may be stuck in your eye.
- Do not apply any ointments or take any medications unless directed by a doctor.
The safest way to see fireworks is to attend a show conducted by trained professionals. If you do decide to use fireworks at home, you need to take extra precautions to avoid any sort of injuries. Follow these guidelines below.
- Do not let children play with fireworks. If you decide to allow your child to use safer fireworks, do so under strict supervision.
- Set off fireworks away from houses, dry brush, or any material that might be flammable.
- Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher close by in case of emergency.
- Any duds must be soaked in water and thrown away.
- Store fireworks in a safe place and away from live fireworks.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Keep a safe distance when lighting fireworks.
Fourth of July should be about fun and relaxation, so keep these things in mind to make sure you and your loved ones stay safe.
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