Summer celebrations often include fireworks, but they also bring a significant risk of injury—especially to the eyes. While fireworks can be beautiful and exciting, they can cause serious and sometimes permanent vision damage in just seconds.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of people are treated in emergency rooms each year for fireworks-related injuries, with many incidents occurring during the weeks surrounding Independence Day. “Adults ages 25 to 44 accounted for the largest share of reported injuries (32%), followed by people ages 15 to 24 (24%). The most frequently injured body parts were hands and fingers (36%) and head, face, and ears (22%). Burns were the most common injury, making up 37% of all emergency room visits.”
Common Firework-Related Eye Injuries
Fireworks can cause:
- Burns to the eyelids and surrounding tissue
- Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye)
- Retinal damage
- Chemical injuries from explosive materials
- Penetrating injuries that can lead to permanent vision loss
Even bystanders who are not handling fireworks can be injured by flying debris, sparks, or malfunctioning devices.
Sparklers Are Not as Safe as They Seem
Many parents consider sparklers a safer alternative, but they can be extremely dangerous. Sparklers burn at temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing and cause severe burns to the hands, face, and eyes.
The National Fire Protection Association reports that sparklers account for a significant percentage of fireworks-related injuries each year, particularly among young children. For safer celebrations, consider alternatives such as glow sticks, LED light wands, confetti poppers, or colored streamers.
Fireworks Safety Tips
To reduce the risk of eye injuries:
- Attend professional fireworks displays whenever possible.
- Stay at least 500 feet away from launched fireworks.
- Never allow children to handle fireworks, including sparklers.
- Wear protective safety glasses if lighting fireworks.
- Keep spectators at a safe distance.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand when lighting them.
- Do not point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
If fireworks fail to ignite, do not attempt to relight it. Leave it alone and follow local disposal guidelines. Never touch or handle unexploded fireworks.
What To Do If an Eye Injury Occurs
A fireworks-related eye injury should always be treated as a medical emergency. Immediate care can help preserve vision.
If an eye injury occurs:
DO:
- Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
- Protect the eye with a loose shield if possible.
- Keep the injured person calm and avoid further movement.
DO NOT:
- Rub the eye.
- Rinse the eye with water.
- Apply pressure to the eye.
- Remove any object stuck in the eye.
- Use eye drops or ointments unless directed by a physician.
- Take aspirin or other blood-thinning medications unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Enjoy a Safe and Happy Fourth of July
Fireworks can create lasting memories—but they can also cause life-changing injuries. By following proper safety precautions and leaving fireworks to trained professionals whenever possible, you can help protect your family’s vision and overall health.
If you experience an eye injury or have concerns about your eye health, contact Bissell Eye Care immediately at (724) 444-6767 or (724) 226-0444.
From all of us at Bissell Eye Care, we wish you and your family a safe, enjoyable summer and a happy Independence Day. We also extend our gratitude to the veterans and active-duty service members whose sacrifices help preserve our freedoms.
About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD, is the owner of Bissell Eye Care, proudly serving the Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. Dr. Bissell has received advanced training through the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists, enabling him to help patients living with vision impairment and low vision challenges. With two convenient office locations and evening appointments available, Bissell Eye Care offers comprehensive eye exams for the entire family—starting as young as six months. Our services include ocular disease detection and treatment, prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses, specialty activewear eyewear, contact lenses, and dedicated low vision evaluations for those with significant vision impairment and vision loss. We accept most vision and health insurance plans. To learn more, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown office at 724-443-6767 or our Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.