Fireworks go hand in hand with many spring and summer celebrations, especially those around the Fourth of July. While fireworks create breathtaking displays of color and light, they also pose some potential dangers to eye and vision health, including eye trauma, burns, and chemical exposure. Below are a few tips to protect your eyes and minimize the risks that come with fireworks.

How to Protect Your Eyes From Fireworks

1. Maintain a Safe Distance

Whether fireworks are first being lit, blazing in the sky at peak presentation, or tapering out in pops of smoke, keep a sizeable distance between yourself and the display. Stay at least 500 feet away at all times to best safeguard your eyes and vision. If you need to walk through the immediate vicinity where the fireworks were launched, wait several minutes after the last display of the evening has ended.

2. Wear Safety Glasses

If you're in charge of setting off the fireworks, wear safety glasses or goggles. The same type of eyewear you would use for a small construction project or for operating power tools is usually sufficient. They should provide a sturdy barrier around the eyes and have the capacity to withstand a fair amount of heat while still offering clear and unimpeded vision.

3. Wash Hands Thoroughly After Handling

Fireworks contain chemicals that can be caustic to the eyes. After handling fireworks, refrain from putting your hands or fingers anywhere near the eyes; they could cause anything from mild irritation to serious chemical burns. Once the fireworks display has ended, wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water, being sure to scrub each finger and nail individually.

If you are injured by a firework, seek medical attention immediately. Eric G. Stocker, OD, is an eye doctor serving the Lorain County, OH, region. For over 30 years, he has been providing eye and vision care services, including exams, prescription eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Schedule an appointment by calling (440) 988-4419 or visiting his website.