June is National Fireworks Safety Month and the eyecare professionals here at Spektacles want to encourage you to be safe this summer season if you celebrate with fireworks.
Did you know there are approximately 10,000 injuries every year from accidents involving fireworks, most causing injury to fingers and eyes?
Most of these injuries occur on or near July 4th and involve firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles.
While most of these products are thought of as simple entertainment or even recreational toys, they can reach temperatures and velocities than can lead to serious injury and property damage.
There’s also a recent trend at weddings and other festive celebrations to use sparklers as a way to celebrate a milestone moment. Brides and Grooms are being given sparkler send-offs more and more.
Whatever reason you might use or come into contact with fireworks, please be safe. Here are some good fireworks safety tips to help you protect your eyes and your health:
- Never “shoot” fireworks at anyone. Bottle rockets and roman candles can easily destroy an eye, cause serious bruises, and risk catching clothes on fire.
- ALWAYS wear safety glasses. Sport shooting glasses from your local sporting goods store are ideal. Make sure they are rated for sports shooting for maximum protection.
- Keep a water source on hand for dousing fires. If you can’t be near a garden hose or water source, bring a fire extinguisher.
- Find a safe place. A driveway or other concrete surface is best. Avoid dry areas and brush to prevent fires. Never use fireworks inside.
- Do not tamper with fireworks. Don’t try to make a large firecracker out of several small ones. Only use them in the manner recommended by their manufacturer.
- Never drink alcohol and use fireworks.
- Keep pets at a safe distance or shut indoors while using fireworks.
- If children are using fireworks, it’s vital they wear the proper safety gear and only use them under a parent or guardian’s strict supervision.
Keep these tips in mind this season and all through the year. Protect your eyes and keep them safe so that you can enjoy wellness and health all your life! And have a fun and safe Fourth of July!
We should never take the health of our eyes for granted. Remember these basic tips to keep your eyes healthy and safe while participating in sports activities. If you are experiencing issues with your eyes or vision or would like to explore your options for improving the health of your eyes, one of our expert eye professionals is happy to help.
You can visit us online at https://www.spektaclessandiego.com to learn more about issues that affect eye health or give us a call at 760-452-2895 to schedule an eye exam.
