Fireworks Safety

Fireworks Eye Safety: Protect Your Eyes This 4th of July

Fireworks are an exciting part of many celebrations, like the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, and other special occasions like a Chiefs Super Bowl victory. They light up the sky in a brilliant display of color and sound, but as fun as they are, fireworks can be very dangerous if not handled correctly—especially when it comes to eye safety.

Below, we'll talk about why fireworks can be risky for your eyes and share some simple safety tips to help you enjoy the show without getting hurt.

Why Fireworks Are Dangerous for Your Eyes

Fireworks are full of chemicals and materials that make them explode in the sky. When they go off, they release sparks, smoke, and even small pieces of debris that can fly at high speeds. If one of these sparks or pieces hits your eye, it can cause serious damage, including:

• Burns: Fireworks burn at extremely high temperatures, and the sparks they create can burn your skin or eyes.

• Cuts or Scrapes: If debris from a firework hits your eye, it can scratch or cut the surface, leading to painful injuries.

• Loss of Vision: In some cases, fireworks can cause permanent damage to your eyes, which could even lead to blindness.

No one wants to experience that kind of injury, so it’s important to take extra care when fireworks are around!

Tips to Keep Your Eyes Safe

1. Stay at a Safe Distance
One of the best ways to keep your eyes (and the rest of your body) safe is to stay at a safe distance from fireworks. The farther away you are, the less likely you’ll get hurt. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests staying at least 500 feet away from professional firework displays. If you’re lighting your own fireworks, make sure you're following all safety instructions.

2. Wear Safety Glasses
If you’re handling fireworks or even just watching a smaller show, it’s a good idea to wear protective eyewear. Safety glasses are made to protect your eyes from sparks, smoke, and other dangers. You can find glasses designed specifically for firework safety at most stores, especially around the holidays.

3. Don’t Touch Fireworks
Never pick up fireworks that didn’t go off or seem like they’re malfunctioning. They can explode at any moment and could cause serious harm to your eyes or face. If a firework doesn’t light properly, let an adult handle it, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Keep Fireworks Away from Your Face
When lighting fireworks, keep them at a safe distance from your body and face. Light fireworks on flat, non-flammable surfaces, and always stand to the side of the firework, not directly over it. Make sure to keep your eyes and face away from any part that might explode.

5. Supervise Younger Children
Fireworks can be super exciting for kids, but they should never handle fireworks on their own. Only adults should light fireworks, and kids should always be watched from a safe distance. Even sparklers, which may seem harmless, can get extremely hot (up to 2000F) and cause burns or eye injuries.

6. Clean Up Safely
After the fireworks show, make sure to clean up any leftover debris carefully. Old fireworks can still be dangerous if not handled properly. Use a broom or a rake to clear them away—never use your hands—and check for any sparks that might still be glowing. Place used fireworks in a bucket of water.

What to Do If an Eye Injury Happens

Even when you're super careful, accidents can still happen. If you or someone else gets an eye injury from fireworks, it’s important to act quickly:

• Don’t rub your eye: Rubbing it could make the injury worse.

• Cover the eye: Use a clean cloth or bandage to cover the injured eye. Don’t try to remove any debris from the eye—let a professional handle it.

• Get medical help immediately: Go to the hospital or call for medical assistance right away. Eye injuries can be very serious, and quick action can help prevent permanent damage.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks are a blast (pun intended), but they come with risks. By staying safe, following the right precautions, and keeping a watchful eye (no pun intended!) on those around you, you can enjoy the fireworks show while keeping your eyes—and everyone else’s—safe.

Remember: Your eyes are precious, so take care of them!

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

The doctors at Summit Eye Centers provide comprehensive eye care including the management of ocular emergencies. Call 816-246-2111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have an eye problem.