Celebrate Safely This Holiday Weekend

Image courtesy of kidshealth.org

Ooooh. Aaaah. These are common sounds heard when observing a fireworks display on the Fourth of July.

Millions of Americans will enjoy fireworks displays this weekend. But too often those that choose to set off their own fireworks aren’t aware of the potential danger associated with such festivities.

Your Indiana eye care doctor wants you to know the hazards of consumer fireworks. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2010 there were three fireworks-related deaths and an estimated 8,600 emergency room treated injuries. 73 percent of the annual fireworks-related injuries in 2010 occurred between June 18 and July 18.

Of the reported fireworks-related injuries, 20 percent affected the eyes. Contusions, lacerations and foreign bodies were the most common injuries to the eyes. The top three culprits were sparklers, firecrackers and bottle rockets.

Children under 15 years of age accounted for approximately 40 percent of the estimated injuries. If your child suffers an injury, Dr. Tavel offers several steps to help save your child’s sight. Don’t rub the eye or attempt to rinse it out as it may increase bleeding and worsen the injury. Instead of applying pressure to the eye, hold a cup or the child’s hand over the eye to protect it. It’s vital to seek immediate medical attention for any firework-related injury.

The safest way to enjoy yourself is by attending only authorized public displays conducted by licensed professionals. Dr. Tavel encourages you to celebrate safely this holiday weekend!