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Firework Safety - The Mind's Eye | Vision and Dental Plans | VBA

Written by Emily Shrader | Jul 1, 2016 4:00:00 AM

Did you know that fireworks cause over 9,000 visits to the emergency room each year?

Of those visits, about 15% are eye-related injuries. In an effort to keep your 4th of July celebration safe, keep these tips in mind over the holiday weekend:

  • Leave it to the professionals

 Though it’s fun to light a firecracker or sparkler, it’s best to leave the firework displays to licensed operators.

  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings

An alarming 65% of firework injuries are to bystanders. Even at a professional firework display, be aware of what is going on around you.

  • Know How to Treat an Eye Injury

Firework-related eye injuries can vary from blunt force trauma, heat burns and chemical exposure. These types of injuries should be considered a medical emergency. It is important to:

  • Seek immediate medical attention
  • Avoid rubbing the eye
  • Avoid rinsing the eye
  • Avoid pressure to the eye
  • Avoid removing any object stuck in the eye