Summer in South Texas is filled with family gatherings, backyard barbecues, and spectacular fireworks displays. While fireworks are a favorite tradition, they can also pose a serious threat to your eyesight if proper precautions aren’t taken.
During Fireworks Safety Month, Eye Associates of South Texas encourages everyone to make eye protection part of every celebration. A few simple safety measures can help prevent devastating eye injuries and ensure your holiday memories remain bright.
Fireworks and Eye Injuries: The Risks Are Real
Fireworks are responsible for thousands of injuries every year, many of which involve the eyes. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 10,000 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in 2022, with approximately 16% involving the eyes.
These injuries can range from minor irritation to permanent vision loss and often require emergency medical treatment.
Common fireworks-related eye injuries include:
Burns
The intense heat from fireworks can burn the eyelids or the surface of the eye, especially when fireworks malfunction or explode unexpectedly close to someone.
Corneal Abrasions
Flying sparks, ash, or debris can scratch the cornea—the clear front surface of the eye—causing significant pain, tearing, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.
Blunt Eye Trauma
Exploding fireworks and flying debris can strike the eye with tremendous force, potentially causing retinal detachment, internal bleeding, or even rupture of the eye. These injuries are medical emergencies that can permanently affect vision.
Chemical Burns
Fireworks contain chemicals that can severely irritate or burn the eyes if particles come into contact with them.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can be injured by fireworks, adults ages 25 to 44 account for the highest percentage of reported injuries. Children younger than 15 years old are also at significant risk.
It’s important to remember that many injuries happen to spectators, not just the individuals lighting fireworks. Standing nearby does not eliminate the risk of flying debris or unexpected explosions.
Protect Your Eyes During Fireworks Displays
Whether you’re setting off fireworks or watching from a safe distance, protecting your eyes is essential.
Wear Polycarbonate Safety Glasses
If you are handling fireworks, wear ANSI-approved safety glasses made with impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses. Regular eyeglasses or sunglasses do not provide adequate protection from explosions or flying debris.
Use Safety Goggles When Needed
Safety goggles create a protective seal around the eyes and offer additional protection against smoke, sparks, and airborne particles.
Consider Face Shields
For individuals responsible for setting up or managing fireworks displays, a face shield worn over safety glasses provides extra protection for the entire face.
Don’t Rely on Sunglasses Alone
Although UV-protective sunglasses help reduce glare during daytime celebrations, they should never replace proper safety eyewear when handling fireworks.
Fireworks Safety Tips
Follow these simple guidelines to help prevent serious injuries:
- Read and follow all manufacturer instructions.
- Only use fireworks outdoors in a large, open area.
- Keep spectators at a safe distance.
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
- Wear protective eye protection when lighting fireworks.
- Use a long lighter or lighting stick to ignite fireworks.
- Light only one firework at a time.
- Never attempt to relight a firework that fails to ignite.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
- Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away.
Better yet, consider attending a professional fireworks display, where trained experts manage the show while you safely enjoy the experience.
What to Do If a Firework Injures Your Eye
If an eye injury occurs, acting quickly can help preserve vision.
Do Not Rub Your Eye
Rubbing the eye may worsen the injury or push foreign material deeper into the eye.
Do Not Remove Objects
If debris has entered the eye, do not attempt to remove it yourself.
Avoid Applying Pressure
Do not press on the injured eye or attempt to bandage it tightly.
Seek Emergency Medical Care Immediately
Fireworks-related eye injuries should always be treated as emergencies. Visit the nearest emergency room immediately, and follow up with an ophthalmologist as soon as possible for specialized care.
Celebrate Safely This Summer
Fireworks create unforgettable memories—but protecting your eyesight should always come first.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is from a safe distance at a professional display. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, always wear proper eye protection, follow all safety instructions, and supervise children closely.
At Eye Associates of South Texas, we’re committed to helping you protect your vision throughout every season. If you experience an eye injury or notice changes in your vision after a fireworks accident, don’t wait to seek care.
Schedule an appointment with Eye Associates of South Texas today and let our experienced team help keep your eyes healthy for every celebration.
