USING FIREWORKS SAFELY: HOW TO PROTECT YOUR EYES
For many people, summer is synonymous with fireworks season, and in some cases that means setting off your own. But fireworks, even small ones, should never be used carelessly. At our Calgary eye center, we want to make sure our patients know the ins and outs of protecting their eyes when using fireworks. Here are five tips for having a safe experience.
1. Wear eye goggles
It’s important to remember that even with the smallest of fireworks, you’re dealing with explosives. Safety goggles should be worn at all times when setting off fireworks. This is the most effective way to keep any debris or ash from reaching your eyes.
2. Read the instructions
Carefully read and follow the instructions on the fireworks you’ve purchased to ensure you’re setting them off properly. This will help prevent any accidents from occurring in the first place. As a general rule, it’s also safer to light one firework at a time, to retreat a safe distance immediately after lighting a firework, and to never relight a dud.
3. Protect children
Children under 15 are the group most frequently injured by fireworks. Kids should be carefully supervised around fireworks and should always wear safety goggles. Lighting fireworks should be handled by adults. Children should never be allowed to play with fireworks, even sparklers, which can likewise injure eyes.
4. If you’re injured, seek help immediately
The best thing to do if you do get hurt is to immediately head to the emergency room. Do not rub, rinse, or apply any ointment to your eyes; this could make the injury worse. Don’t attempt to remove any objects that are stuck in the eye.
5. It’s safer to let the pros handle it
As Calgary optometrists, we’d much rather see our patients’ eyes healthy and whole, so we recommend viewing professional shows as the safest method for getting your fireworks to fix. The pros will know how to wow you, and as long as you stay in the designated viewing area, you’ll always be at a safe distance from the action, so you won’t have to worry about anything but enjoying the show.
If you’re looking for a Calgary optometry clinic, Crowfoot Vision Centre can take care of all your vision and ocular health needs. To find out more about us, visit us online or give us a call. We serve many areas of Calgary, including Arbour Lake. Our eye doctors are available to help you and your family members Monday through Saturday. Book your appointment today!