Patient Education

When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, there’s nothing more iconic than a sky full of fireworks. But along with the excitement comes real danger—especially to your vision. Every year, emergency rooms across the country treat patients with eye injuries from fireworks, many of them children under 15. At Eye Care of San Diego, we want to help you enjoy the festivities while keeping your eyes safe. 

The Risk Is Real 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), fireworks cause nearly 2,000 eye injuries annually. These injuries can include corneal abrasions, burns, retinal detachment, and even blindness. Surprisingly, bystanders account for nearly two-thirds of all fireworks-related injuries—not the person lighting the fuse. 

Even small items like sparklers can reach temperatures over 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to cause serious eye damage in a fraction of a second. 

How to Keep Your Eyes Safe This 4th of July 

To protect your vision during firework celebrations, follow these smart safety practices: 

  • Watch from a distance. Stay well back (at least 500 feet) from any fireworks launch site—even small backyard shows. 
  • Don’t hand sparklers to kids. Opt for glow sticks or LED toys instead. 
  • Avoid DIY fireworks. Leave the fireworks to trained professionals and enjoy public displays from a safe viewing zone. 
  • Use protective glasses. If you’re near fireworks activity, wear safety-rated eyewear. 
  • Never pick up duds. A misfired firework could still ignite unexpectedly. 

What to Do If You Get an Eye Injury 

If you or someone near you suffers an eye injury: 

  • Do not rub or apply pressure to the eye. 
  • Do not rinse or attempt to remove debris. 
  • Go to the emergency room or call an eye care professional immediately. 
  • Fireworks injuries can escalate quickly and require fast medical attention. 

Keep the Fun, Skip the Injury 

Your vision is irreplaceable. With just a few precautions, you can enjoy a dazzling 4th of July without putting your eyesight at risk. 

Need expert care or have concerns about your eye health? 
Call Eye Care of San Diego today at (800) 765-2737 or book your eye evaluation before the fireworks and celebration. 

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