HEALTH ALERT: Booth Eye Care Warns of the Dangers of Fireworks

In looking back over this past July 4th week, many physicians like those at Booth Eye Care comment on the dangers of fireworks. Many of those using fireworks don’t understand the serious damage fireworks can do to the eyes.

When buying fireworks, people rarely consider the potential for serious physical harm. It’s understandable though, as fireworks are a great pastime and extremely enjoyable. However, eye doctors like those at Booth Eye Care warn of the dangers of fireworks.

According to Examiner.com, fireworks can have devastating effects on the eye. Many don’t even realize that a firework’s debris is more harmful than the explosion itself. “The eye is the most frequently injured body part” in regards to fireworks, says Vanessa Alphonse, researcher at Wake Forest University.

The cornea, in particular, is extremely vulnerable in the presence of fireworks. The cornea covers the outside of the eye, protecting the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. Corneal injuries are the most common reason for firework-related accidents.

Alphonse and her colleagues researched firework accidents and wrote about them in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Using high-speed video, they recorded blasts from different distances on cadavers’ eyes. They report that the most serious injuries were caused by unused explosive debris. Consequently, the most effective way to protect the eye is to wear eye protection.

Booth Eye Care notes that ER visits typically double during the week of the 4th. And last week was no different. In attempting to prevent this from occurring again, Booth Eye Care suggests several ways to prevent injury. First, if you don’t have protective eye-wear, it’s important that you move away from the launching area. This will likely lessen the potential for injury.

Similarly, it’s important to never aim a firework at anyone. They should be lit and not handled while going off. Plant you firework in the ground, pointing away from viewers.

As a preventative measure, have a bucket of water close to the launching area. If a firework hits a person, use the water bucket. You can also use a hose to put out any stray fires that may occur from the fireworks. Additionally, ensure that those who are excessively drinking do not handle fireworks.

Ensure that safety remains important during your firework fun. Take extra care to ensure the safety of yourself and of others. Nothing ruins a good recreational time like a visit to the Emergency Room.

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Booth Eye Care provides the utmost in corrective vision repair. Dr. Booth and his friendly staff fully assess each patient. With the highest technology available, Booth Eye Care ensures the success of each operation.