The 4th of July is right around the corner, and for many of us that means good food, time with family, and of course, fireworks. Even in the midst of the exciting celebrations, it is more important than ever to consider our eye safety throughout the day. Every year urgent cares and emergency rooms see a big spike in eye injuries on the 4th of July, but there are things you can do to keep your eye safety in mind and ensure that the holiday is easy on your eyes.
Wear Your Safety Glasses
If you plan on celebrating with fireworks (even sparklers) this year, one of the most important things you can do is to wear eye safety glasses or googles. Fireworks are unpredictable, and while that’s part of the fun, it’s also one of the reasons why they are so dangerous. When fireworks explode they spew debris that can range in size and movement speeds, and often that debris is burning or extremely hot. If you are lighting fireworks you are at direct risk of getting hit by this debris. Even a small fragment getting in your eyes could cause major damage.
Give it Space
If you are planning on attending a firework show or are watching others light fireworks, stay a ways away and always respect any barriers that have been set up. Space from the fireworks being lit is extremely important to your eye safety. While the individual lighting the fireworks may have protective gear, it is likely you won’t as a spectator, so keeping yourself and any children that may be with you a healthy distance from where the fireworks are being lit is crucial.
Stay Safe All Day
While fireworks are the most prominent concern on the 4th of July, it is good to remember that it is a summer day and likely you will be spending a lot of time outside. It can be easy to forget simple eye safety measurements like sunglasses, to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only can the UV from the sun damage your eyes when you’re not wearing sunglasses, but you might find that your eyes are strained and exhausted after the long day outdoors. The best way to make sure your eyes stay safe throughout the day is to wear a pair of high quality 100% UV blocking sunglasses.
Taking eye safety precautions this 4th of July (and any time you may be around fireworks or out in the sun) is important for your overall eye health and ensures that the holiday is pain and injury free.
