Fireworks injure approximately 7,000 Americans each year, according to the
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While this number has dramatically
declined in the last decade, injuries continue to occur.
Are you at risk?
Typical victim: Male
Age: 13-15
Location: Home
Time of Year: June 29-July 5
Firework: Bottle rocket
Setting: Group of male friends at home: no adults present
Victim(s): Igniter; Bystander (40% chance)
Injury: Severe eye damage
Treatment: Immediate surgical intervention; multiple follow-up surgeries
Outcome: One-fourth result in permanent vision loss or blindness; one in 20
lose all useful vision or require removal of the eye.
The Sight & Hearing Association encourages you to attend public fireworks
display as an alternative to lighting your own.
View public fireworks display from at least 500 feet (1/2 miles).
Respect the safety barriers the pyrotechnicians have set up.
Let trained professionals light the fireworks.
Follow the directions of local fire and police personnel at public
displays.
Do not touch unexploded fireworks.
See how much you know about fireworks safety. Take our quiz!
