Fireworks and eyes: Keep it safe this Independence Day

July 2nd, 2008 at 05:07pm Deborah Austin

Sixty-nine percent of fireworks injuries happen in the month around Independence Day. Forty-three percent of fireworks injuries affect children under the age of 15.  One-third of the fireworks-related eye injuries result in a permanently blind eye. 

And don’t assume kids are safe with sparklers; they can reach nearly 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit at their burning tips.

Not meaning to cramp your style on July 4, but those cautions come from the American Council on Science and Health. Council advisor and ophthalmologist Dr. Emil Chynn has written an essay, “Protect Your Eyes on July Fourth,” with information and guidelines on safe use of fireworks. 

Some of his tips: 

* Adult supervision and protective eyewear are necessary.

* Keep a bucket of water nearby.

* Never give a firecracker or sparkler to a child.

* Don’t light a firecracker bigger than your pinkie finger, don’t light them indoors, and don’t try to relight duds.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

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