Fireworks Eye Safety Awareness: Join the Movement to Prevent Injuries

Fireworks bring joy, light, and celebration to various events. From Independence Day to New Year's Eve, they help us mark moments of happiness. But as enjoyable as they are to watch, fireworks can pose a serious risk to eye health if proper precautions aren't taken. Each year, countless people suffer injuries from fireworks, many of which lead to vision loss. 

Below, we'll discuss fireworks safety tips, including important information on how to light fireworks safely. Call Kirk Eye Center in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL to book an examination. Improve your ocular health today. 

Why fireworks eye safety is important 

Fireworks are exciting, but they also come with serious risks, especially to your eyes. The most common fireworks-related eye injuries include:  

• Chemical burns from powder 
• Impact injuries from explosions 
• Burns from sparks and hot debris 
• Cuts or scratches from fireworks casing 

Taking precautions can make the difference between enjoying the festivities and needing an eye exam due to an accident. 

How to light fireworks safely 

Protect your vision and avoid a serious eye injury by following these fireworks safety tips:  

• Choose your location wisely: Set up your fireworks display in an open area, far from trees, buildings, and spectators. 
• Read the instructions: Always read and follow the instructions on the fireworks packaging. This will help you understand the recommended distance and other important information. 
• Wear protective eyewear: Regular sunglasses will not provide enough protection. Use high-quality shatterproof safety glasses or goggles. 
• Keep water and a fire extinguisher nearby: Be prepared to extinguish accidental flames caused by fireworks. 

While setting off fireworks yourself can be exciting, professional teams know how to follow strict safety protocols. Attending public fireworks shows is usually a safer option than setting off fireworks at home. 

What to do if you experience an eye injury 

Accidents can happen, even with the best precautions. If you or someone else sustains an eye injury, here's how to handle the situation until professional help arrives:  

• Avoid touching or rubbing the eye: Rubbing can worsen the injury, especially if there are foreign particles in the eye. 
• Avoid self-medication: Over-the-counter medications may not be safe for an eye injury and could lead to complications. 
• Seek emergency care: If there are signs of a serious injury, such as severe pain or bleeding, go straight to the nearest emergency room. Even if an injury appears minor, it can lead to complications if untreated. 

What happens during an eye exam 

In addition to understanding fireworks safety, our team at Kirk Eye Center recommends attending yearly eye exams. So, what happens during an eye exam in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL? We:  

• Identify eye conditions and diseases early 
• Assess and maintain overall ocular health 
• Update your prescription for glasses or contact lenses 

If you've recently participated in fireworks displays and suspect your eyes were exposed to harmful materials, schedule an appointment today. Learn more fireworks safety tips and what happens during an eye exam by speaking with our team. 

Protect your vision and celebrate safely 

Fireworks are an exciting way to mark special occasions, but they must be handled responsibly. By understanding how to light fireworks and implementing preventive measures, such as wearing protective eyewear, we can make celebrations safer for everyone. 

If you've experienced an eye injury or want to maintain your ocular health, Kirk Eye Center can help. Visit us in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL to receive care tailored to your needs.