Fireworks have long been associated with celebrations, captivating audiences with their vibrant displays of light and color. However, it’s crucial to remember that fireworks are not just innocent sources of entertainment. They come with inherent risks and dangers, particularly when handled by untrained individuals. By raising awareness about fireworks safety, we hope to ensure that celebrations remain accident-free for everyone involved.

Personal fireworks, such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles, may seem harmless when viewed from afar. However, the reality is far from it. In untrained hands, these pyrotechnic devices can quickly become dangerous projectiles. Fireworks can be highly unpredictable, with occasional malfunctions or irregular fusing leading to unexpected explosions. This unpredictability increases the risk of accidents and injuries.

Sparklers: A Deceptive Threat

Sparklers are often considered a safer alternative to traditional fireworks, especially for children. However, they still pose significant dangers and should be handled with extreme caution.

Here’s why:

High Temperature: Sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat can cause severe burns, particularly when mishandled or brought too close to the body or clothing.

Lack of Supervision: Sparklers are often handed to young children, who may not fully understand the potential risks involved. Without proper adult supervision, accidents can easily occur.

Eye Injuries: While sparklers are not as visually intimidating as larger fireworks, they still pose a significant risk to the eyes. Small sparks or ignited metal fragments can cause eye injuries, leading to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Alternatives to sparklers that can be just as enjoyable and safe.

• Glow Sticks: Glow sticks are a popular alternative that provide a colorful and captivating experience for children. They are safe, easy to use, and come in various shapes and sizes. Children can wear them as bracelets, necklaces, or even create glowing designs in the dark.
• LED Balloons: LED balloons are a fun and visually appealing option. These balloons contain LED lights inside that create a glowing effect. Children can play with them, toss them around, or even have balloon races in the evening.
• Light-up Wands and Toys: There are a variety of light-up wands, swords, and toys available that emit colorful lights without any fire or spark. Children can wave them around, create light patterns, and enjoy their own light show.
• Confetti Poppers: Confetti poppers are a safe and exciting way to add a festive touch to celebrations. These handheld devices shoot out colorful confetti when the string is pulled, creating a joyful atmosphere for children to enjoy.
• Patriotic Crafts and Art Activities: Engage children in patriotic crafts and art activities to celebrate the 4th of July. They can create their own flags, decorate T-shirts with fabric paint, or make festive crafts using red, white, and blue materials.
• Outdoor Games: Plan a variety of outdoor games to keep children entertained. Classic games like sack races, three-legged races, or water balloon tosses can be a lot of fun and provide an active and engaging experience for everyone.

Remember, always prioritize the safety and age-appropriateness of the activities. Adult supervision is crucial to ensure a secure and enjoyable celebration for young children. These alternatives keep the focus on fun, creativity, and togetherness during the 4th of July festivities. Despite warnings and safety campaigns, fireworks-related injuries continue to occur each year, with a substantial portion of these incidents involving eye injuries.

If you suffer an injury due to fireworks, especially to your eyes, seek help immediately.

• Do not rub the eyes
• Do not rinse the eyes
• Do not apply pressure
• Do not put on ointments or take any blood-thinning pain medication

The safest way to watch fireworks is for you to let somebody else light off the fireworks. When we say someone else, we mean a professional – as in – go to a fireworks show. If you have any questions or need information on eye injury following an accident, call Bissell Eye Care at (724) 444-6767 or 724-226-0444.

Remember 4th of July is about enjoying our freedom.  Be sure to thank a Veteran and their family for their sacrifice and service.  Wishing you and your family a happy and safe summer.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening and Saturday appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.