NATIONWIDE — Every year, people suffer serious eye injuries from backyard fireworks displays. Most of the victims are children and bystanders located nowhere near the pyrotechnics. 

As Independence Day nears, we are working to dispel the myths that put people at risk of blindness. 

“Most people just don’t see the harm in sparklers, spinners, firecrackers and bottle rockets, and they learn too late the necessity of wearing eye protection,” said Dianna Seldomridge, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “It’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals. But if you choose to celebrate with fireworks, wear safety goggles and take all the necessary precautions to keep your family safe.”

Dr Donald Morris, D.O., secretary for public and professional information and the president-elect of the Pennsylvania Academy of Ophthalmology, says, “Even though Class C fireworks, which are consumer-grade fireworks, are legal for people over 18 in Pennsylvania, it does not mean they are always safe.” 

“A bottle rocket to the eye can cause real and blinding damage to your eye,” he continued.  “I have seen this firsthand,  so wear protective gear and make sure you will be watching from a safe distance away.” 

Let’s dispel some myths. 

• Myth #1: Consumer fireworks are harmless. 

Fireworks can cause blinding eye injuries such as chemical and thermal burns, corneal abrasions or retinal detachment. If you live in a state where consumer fireworks are legal and have plans to use them, wear eye protection.

• Myth #2: Sparklers are made for kids and aren’t dangerous. 

Don’t let the small size fool you; sparklers burn at more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s hot enough to melt certain metals.

• Myth #3: Duds are harmless. 

Malfunctioning fireworks should be handled with caution. Do not try to relight faulty fireworks. Instead, soak them in water and throw the duds away.

• Myth #4: Only those handling the fireworks are at risk. 

The majority of firework-related eye injuries happen to bystanders. Watch fireworks from at least 500 feet away and make sure everyone is wearing eye protection.

If an eye injury does occur, seek medical attention right away.

For more tips and information, visit www.eyesmart.org.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons. A global community of 32,000 medical doctors, the organization is involved with ophthalmic education; it also advocates for patients and the public.The EyeSmart® program provides the public with information about eye health. Learn more at www.aao.org.