Community Corner

Decatur Optometrist: Beware of Sparklers This Weekend

Sparklers can give off 1800 degrees of heat

A Decatur-based member of the Georgia Optometric Association is  urging parents to practice fireworks safety this Fourth of July in an effort to reduce the number of eye injuries.  

"For most Americans, the Fourth of July holiday is marked by backyard barbeques and patriotic fireworks displays," said Dr. Thomas Reagin. "Unfortunately, the fun can be cut short when fireworks are used inappropriately and cause serious injuries.

"Some of the most common fireworks injuries are eye abrasions, lacerations, contusions and foreign matter in the eye. The majority of these cases are related to the use of sparklers."

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Reagin cited a a study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, that indicates fireworks were the culprit for an estimated 8,800 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms during 2009. 54 percent of those who were injured were children or teenagers.

To help prevent injury during fireworks season, Reagin recommended the following tips to help protect and preserve eyesight during the Fourth of July holiday:

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  • Avoid purchasing sparklers. Heating up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, sparklers are the number one cause of fireworks injuries requiring trips to the emergency room.
  • Discuss firework safety with children and teens prior to the Fourth of July holiday.
  • Do not allow kids to handle fireworks, and never leave them unsupervised near fireworks.
  • Wear protective eyewear when lighting and handling fireworks of any kind.
  • Store fireworks, matches and lighters in a secure place where children won’t find them.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and only light fireworks when family, friends and children are at a safe distance.


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