Independence Day is right around the corner and while it is a fun summer-time celebration, it is also a dangerous day due to amount of injuries that occur from fireworks. As a matter of fact, nearly two thirds of fireworks-related injuries treated in the ER during the period of time surrounding the 4th of July. A substantial amount of the fireworks-related incidents are eye injuries.
Eye Physicians of Northampton wants to bring awareness to the potential dangers of fireworks. To prevent eye injuries, the best way is to just not purchase or handle fireworks. It is safer to attend public fireworks viewings that are put on by professionals instead. If you do handle fireworks yourself, be sure to follow these safety tips:
- Always set off fireworks in an outdoor area that is free of flammable materials and away from structures or buildings.
- Do not set off fireworks near other people.
- Do not point fireworks at other people.
- Do not allow children to handle fireworks.
- Keep a container of water within reach in case of emergencies.
In the unfortunate event of an eye injury, it is important to act quickly. You can minimize the damage to the eye by following these tips:
- Do not rub or put any pressure on the eye
- Do not attempt to remove any foreign object from the eye
- Do not try to rinse the eye
- Do not apply any type of ointment to the eye
Keep all of these safety tips in mind when you’re celebrating America next month! Please call Eye Physicians of Northampton for any questions or concerns about eye safety at (413) 584-6422.
