01 Jul Firework Eye Injuries: How To Protect Your Eyes This Summer
Every summer, fireworks light up the skies, bringing excitement and celebration to Canada Day, the Fourth of July, and countless backyard gatherings. But while fireworks are beautiful and fun to watch, they also pose serious risks to your eyes. Firework eye injuries are more common than many realize, and they can range from mild irritation to permanent vision loss. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common types of firework-related eye injuries and share essential tips to help you protect your eyes and enjoy the festivities safely.
How Fireworks Injure Eyes
Fireworks can cause serious eye injuries in a variety of ways. Firework eye injuries are characterized by blunt, sharp, and/or chemical trauma. In 2023, 19% of firework injuries involved the eyes and over half were burns. Whether legal or illegal, fireworks such as sparklers, firecrackers and bottle rockets cause lasting damage or even blindness.
- Blunt Force
Blunt force occurs when fireworks high-speed projectiles strike the eye. Even the smaller fireworks can shoot pieces that strike the cornea, leaving either abrasions or bruises. This type of trauma can cause swelling, pain and occasionally internal eye bleeding, known as hyphema.
While direct hits to the eye can increase the risk of permanent vision loss, projectiles can swell or tear the eye, which can translate to emergency surgery or lifelong complications. Emergency departments get used to seasonal cycles of these injuries, particularly around public holidays. These statistics inform safety regulations and direct awareness to avoid future injuries.
- Thermal Burns
Thermal burns in firework eye injuries typically occur when hot sparks or flames come in contact with the eye or surrounding skin. Sparklers, often wrongly deemed safe, can burn at 1,093°C (2,000°F)—hot enough to melt certain metals. Even momentary exposure can cause burns resulting in deep pain, swelling, or scarring that never completely recedes.
Knowing burns early is key. Symptoms include abrupt pain, redness or blurry vision. Immediate medical assistance and interventions such as flushing the eye with cool water can reduce the chance of permanent damage. For deep burns, surgery might be necessary to preserve vision.
- Chemical Exposure
There can be chemical injuries if fireworks particles or liquid enter the eye. Elements such as potassium nitrate and sulfur can burn the eye and injure the retina. Immediate rinsing with fresh water is the initial critical action if contact occurs.
Longer-term issues, like retinal toxicity or chronic irritation, can ensue. Chemical burns don’t always hurt initially, so awareness of symptoms—redness, tearing, vision changes—can drive quicker care-seeking.
- Penetrating Trauma
Penetrating trauma means sharp fragments from fireworks pierce the eye. This injury is dangerous and can result in vision loss if not immediately treated. Pain, sudden vision loss or a visible laceration are red flags. Improper or malfunctioning fireworks are an extremely common culprit, so picking up safe handling knowledge is crucial.
Long-Term Consequences
Fireworks can damage eyes with long-term consequences. These wounds run deeper than the initial sting. Firework eye injuries can be very serious. Research indicates that individuals who sustain these injuries can be left with partial or complete blindness. Others will never see clearly again, some wounds rendering individuals with vision at only 6 metres or less (20/50 vision). Burns to the cornea, the transparent covering at the eye’s front, is a primary culprit in post-fireworks blindness. In severe instances, trauma may even result in evisceration or lens aspiration where eye contents must be removed or artificial lenses implanted. These aren’t little hacks, but major transformations that can impact a person for life.
Cataracts are yet another issue that can emerge post-fireworks injury. When the eye is struck sharply or scalded, the lens may become cloudy. We call this a traumatic cataract. It can dull things, even with glasses. Sometimes surgery is required to repair it, but that brings further risks and expenses.
Beyond the physical, these injuries can be a drain on your psyche. Losing your vision, or even an eye, can result in permanent sadness, anxiety or tension. It can transform an individual’s everyday existence, their self-esteem, and even their work or academic life. Children are particularly vulnerable. While roughly 1 in 4 fireworks eye injuries occur in children under 14, these injuries can dictate the trajectory of the rest of their lives.
Fireworks victims should get their eyes checked frequently. These routine visits help detect issues early, such as elevated pressure or evidence of new harm. Early intervention can prevent further damage and help individuals adapt.
How To Prevent Firework Eye Injuries
Preventing firework eye injuries starts with awareness and caution. Always wear protective eyewear if you’re handling or near fireworks to shield your eyes from sparks and debris. Never allow children to light fireworks, including sparklers, as they can cause serious burns and eye damage. Keep a safe distance from any fireworks once they are lit, and avoid leaning over them. Only purchase fireworks from licensed vendors, and never attempt to relight “duds” or malfunctioning fireworks. Finally, whenever possible, enjoy professional firework displays rather than setting off your own — it’s safer and just as spectacular. Taking these simple precautions can help keep your eyes safe and your summer celebrations injury-free.
Conclusion
Fireworks can pack a powerful punch to the eyes. Little sparks or flying bits can burn, scratch, or even cut deep. Prompt care and smart safety measures reduce the threat. Eye guards and a safe distance from the blast go a long way. Even basic stuff like not picking up spent shells or handing fireworks off to kids can prevent a ton of agony.
If you’re planning to watch fireworks this summer, it’s important to familiarize yourself with essential eye safety tips to protect your vision. And if you experience any eye injury related to fireworks, don’t hesitate to contact your eye doctor immediately for prompt care. Reach out to Dr. D’Orio Eyecare today. Visit https://drdorioeyecare.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 416-656-2020 for our Toronto location, or 416-661-5555 for our North York location.