Eye protection for Independence Day

June 30, 2010

As American celebrate the nation's birthday, many will be out in the sun and enjoying fireworks displays later on in the evening. It is important that precautions are taken when enjoying the festivities.

The American Council on Science and Health says that fireworks-related injuries are most often to the eyes, with 20 percent of those injuries being serious and needing treatment at the emergency room.

According to the United States Eye Injury Registry, 400 people lose their vision permanently due to a fireworks injury.

The news source also reports that bottle rockets caused 70 percent of all eye injuries in 2000 with half of them resulting in blindness in one or both eyes. The average age of bottle rocket victims is 13 according to the Eye Injury Registry of Alabama.

It is recommended that children be kept a very safe distance away from fireworks. Wearing protective eyewear is suggested if handling the explosive products.

Many organizations are advocating a ban on selling fireworks unless to trained professionals, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology.