Vision Source Mandan Blog

Are You Practicing Fireworks Eye Safety?

Fireworks season is one of the most spectacular times of year.

The brilliant colors, the dramatic bursts, the collective "ooh" of a crowd watching the sky light up on a warm summer night. But behind the beauty lies a genuine danger that sends thousands of people to emergency rooms every year. As your eye care team, we want you to enjoy every moment of the celebration while keeping your vision safe.

The Real Risk Is Higher Than You Think

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks cause thousands of eye injuries annually in the United States, and a significant portion of those result in permanent vision loss. Burns, lacerations, and blunt trauma are the most common injuries, and they happen not only to people handling fireworks directly but also to bystanders standing nearby.

Eyes are especially vulnerable because of their exposure and delicacy. Even a small spark or debris fragment traveling at high speed can cause serious damage to the cornea, lens, or retina. And unlike a cut on your hand, an eye injury can have life-altering consequences.

Consumer Fireworks Are the Biggest Culprit

Many people assume that professional fireworks displays are the danger and that sparklers and small consumer fireworks are harmless. In reality, consumer fireworks account for the majority of injuries. Sparklers alone burn at temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Bottle rockets are notoriously unpredictable. Even fireworks labeled as "safe and sane" can malfunction or send debris in unexpected directions.

Children are at particularly high risk because they are smaller, faster-moving, and less aware of where they are in relation to fireworks.

How to Protect Your Eyes This Season

The safest option is always to enjoy a professional fireworks display from a reasonable distance. If you do choose to use consumer fireworks where they are legal, here are the key precautions:

  • Wear protective eyewear. Safety glasses with side shields rated to ANSI Z87.1 standards provide meaningful protection for anyone near fireworks.
  • Keep a safe distance. Stay well back from any fireworks being lit, and clear the area entirely before igniting.
  • Never pick up a dud. A firework that did not ignite can still go off. Soak it in water and dispose of it properly.
  • Supervise children closely. Do not allow young children to handle any fireworks, including sparklers.
  • Designate one lighter. Having multiple people near fireworks at ignition dramatically increases risk.

If an Eye Injury Occurs

Do not rub the eye. Do not rinse it with water. Do not attempt to remove any objects. Cover the eye gently with a clean cloth or shield, and get to an emergency room immediately. Time matters enormously with eye trauma, and quick action can be the difference between recovered vision and permanent damage.

See the Show, Protect Your Sight

There is no better soundtrack to summer than a fireworks display shared with people you love. A little preparation means you can take in every brilliant burst without putting your vision at risk. If you have questions about protective eyewear or want to schedule your annual eye exam before the season heats up, give our office a call.

We want you to have everything you need to protect your eyes as you celebrate!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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What Our Clients Say

My annual eye exam is always an excellent experience with Dr. Danielle Dyke. The exam is always thorough, and Dr. Dyke takes the time to explain my eye health in a way I can understand. The Vision Source eye clinic is modern, clean, and the staff is very welcoming. I always feel comfortable and well-cared for at my appointment. I highly recommend Dr. Dyke and Vision Source!

Patricia G.

Dr. Schauer did an amazing job getting my eye infection cleared up. As I sat in my room waiting my turn, because I had a last minute appointment, I could hear her working with a family next door that had young kids.

Fred S.

Whenever I have had eye issues, they have made efforts to get me in asap. Which I really appreciate. I have had Dr. Aberle and Dr. Dyke and they are both excellent. Recently, I saw Dr. Aberle for a chronic eye problem in one eye & he fixed the problem. Honestly, it felt like a miracle. The office staff is also very pleasant to deal with.

Sheila S.

I've literally been a lifelong customer since 5th grade when it was Dr. Little! Dr. Schauer has taken over since Dr. Little retired. It's always a good, friendly experience with all of the staff there. I've never had a bad experience.

Bill S.

The front desk people are very nice and friendly got called in to see Wayne before my appointment time Vision Source has very friendly staff and the clinic is very clean will always be a patient to Vision Source.

Deborah C.

I was greeted by the front desk very efficiently. The person who did the first part of my history and did the testing like the little spritz in my eyes, etc, was very good. I really like my eye doctor, I feel that I get all my questions answered as well as she explains what she is seeing when she is examining my eyes.

Dolly A.

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