Fireworks eye safety might not be the first thing on your mind as you gear up for backyard barbecues and festive Fourth of July celebrations, but it should be. Each year, hundreds of people suffer serious eye injuries from fireworks, many of which are entirely preventable. Whether lighting the fuse or watching from the sidelines, a few smart precautions can make all the difference. At Southwest Eye Institute, we want your holiday filled with fun, not urgent care visits. Here are six expert-approved tips to help keep your vision safe while you enjoy the show.
1. Wear ANSI-Rated Safety Glasses
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 22% of fireworks-related injuries involve the face and head, and 19% specifically affect the eyes. Sparklers, firecrackers, and even small fountains can send debris flying fast enough to cause burns or embed fragments in the eye. Standard sunglasses aren’t enough to protect you.
Instead, invest in polycarbonate safety goggles with an ANSI Z87.1 rating. These can block up to 99% of debris and are widely available at hardware stores. If you’re handling or near fireworks, make goggles your go-to.
2. Keep a Safe Distance
Shrapnel can travel more than 100 yards from an exploding firework. And because 65% of fireworks injuries happen to bystanders, distance is crucial even if you’re not the one lighting the fuse.
Stay at least 50 feet away from small consumer fireworks and 150 feet from larger displays. Use cones or tape to mark safe zones, especially if kids are around.
3. Treat Duds with Caution
It’s tempting to approach a dud firework and figure out what went wrong, but that curiosity can be dangerous. Fireworks can reignite or explode unexpectedly.
Never pick up or relight a dud. Soak it in a bucket of water for at least 15 minutes, then dispose of it safely in a metal container.
4. Supervise Children Closely
Children are the most frequent victims of fireworks injuries, with 31% of incidents involving kids under 15. Even sparklers, which burn at over 2,000°F, can cause burns and eye damage.
Assign one adult per child, and don’t allow young children to light or handle fireworks. Avoid giving sparklers to toddlers entirely, as they lack the coordination and understanding to use them safely.
5. Avoid Metal or Glass Launchers
Homemade launchers—like soda cans or bottles—may seem convenient, but can shatter on ignition, sending sharp shards in every direction.
Stick to fireworks launchers approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Even with legal fireworks and proper tools, malfunctions can happen, so always take extra care.
6. Choose Professional Displays When Possible
The safest fireworks are the ones you don’t set off yourself. Professional displays are managed by trained technicians using safety-rated equipment and controlled zones.
Check local event listings for nearby shows, many of which are free. If you do decide to set off your own fireworks, follow all safety guidelines and local laws, and always have water on hand.
What to Do If You Experience an Eye Injury
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. If someone suffers a fireworks-related eye injury:
Do NOT:
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Rinse the eye with water
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Rub or apply pressure
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Attempt to remove debris
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Use over-the-counter drops or ointments
Do:
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Call 911 if the injury is severe
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If during office hours, schedule an urgent eye-care exam online for professional treatment