Fireworks-Related Eye Injuries

Fireworks can be a thrilling spectacle, but the risks associated with mishandling them can be severe, especially regarding eye injuries. Fireworks-related eye injuries occur worldwide. Trends show significant spikes around major holidays like New Year’s Eve, Guy Fawkes, and the Fourth of July.

This article outlines the statistics on fireworks-related eye injuries, the different types of eye trauma that can result, and essential safety tips, alongside relevant South African fireworks laws to ensure safe celebrations.

Fireworks-Related Eye Injury Statistics

Globally, fireworks cause thousands of injuries every year. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), approximately 15% of all injuries caused by fireworks affect the eyes. Similarly, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 12,000 emergency room visits due to fireworks injuries in 2021, with nearly 15% of those involving eye injuries.

Specific data on eye injuries from fireworks in South Africa is limited, but hospitals report a marked increase in such injuries during holiday periods. A study from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, analysing global data, revealed that 44% of eye injuries from fireworks result in permanent vision loss in at least one eye. These statistics highlight the seriousness of fireworks injuries and the need for preventive measures.

Types of Eye Injuries Caused by Fireworks

Fireworks-related eye injuries vary in severity, with the potential for lifelong consequences. Here are the main types, from least to most severe:

Minor Burns and Irritations

The chemicals in fireworks can cause mild burns to the surface of the eye or irritation due to smoke and particles. This type of injury is often temporary, but it requires immediate rinsing with clean water and medical attention to prevent infection.

Corneal Abrasions

The cornea, the transparent layer covering the eye, can be scratched or damaged by debris or small projectiles from fireworks. Corneal abrasions can cause pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Although treatable, they may leave scars and, in severe cases, impact vision quality.

Hyphema

Hyphema, bleeding in the eye’s anterior chamber, often occurs when a high-velocity impact from fireworks or firework fragments strikes the eye. This injury causes blood to pool, leading to pressure and the risk of permanent vision loss if untreated.

Traumatic Cataract

A traumatic cataract forms when blunt force impacts the lens of the eye, leading to clouding that obstructs vision. Surgery is often required to restore vision, and the injury may be irreversible in some cases.

Ruptured Globe

One of the most severe fireworks injuries is a ruptured globe, where the eye wall is torn. This traumatic injury often leads to permanent vision loss and requires immediate surgical intervention. Ruptured globes are particularly common in instances where powerful fireworks detonate too close to the face.

Optic Nerve Damage

The optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain, can be damaged by blunt force trauma or the blast wave from fireworks. Damage to the optic nerve often results in irreversible blindness, as the nerve fibres cannot regenerate.

Complete Eye Loss

In rare but tragic cases, fireworks can completely destroy the eye. This devastating injury occurs with high-powered explosives and typically results in the permanent loss of vision in the affected eye.

Fireworks Related Eye Injuries:

Firework Safety Tips

To minimise the risk of eye injuries from fireworks, adhere to the following safety tips:

Maintain a Safe Distance: Always keep a safe distance from fireworks and avoid being within the blast range, which is typically 30-50 meters for consumer fireworks.

Use Protective Eyewear: Safety goggles can protect eyes from errant sparks and projectiles, especially for those handling fireworks directly.

Never Let Children Handle Fireworks: Fireworks should only be handled by adults who are knowledgeable about safe practices. Even sparklers, which can reach 982°C, can cause severe burns.

Keep Water Nearby: Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby to douse fireworks after they burn out and to respond to any fire incidents.

Observe Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and designated times and places for fireworks use to prevent injuries and legal issues.

Fireworks Laws in South Africa

South Africa has strict regulations on the use and sale of fireworks to ensure public safety.

Here are important points to note:

Fireworks are prohibited in public spaces, including parks, streets, shopping malls, restaurants, and more.

Fireworks may not be sold by informal vendors; only licensed sellers authorized by the Department of Explosives can sell them.

Fireworks cannot be detonated within 200 meters of hospitals, clinics, petrol stations, or animal shelters.

Individuals under 16 are not allowed to purchase or use fireworks.

It is illegal to aim or throw fireworks at people, animals, buildings, or vehicles.

Public fireworks displays require formal authorization from the Council and relevant authorities, and a pyrotechnician must be present.

Fireworks are only allowed in designated areas between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Guy Fawkes.

Failure to adhere to these laws can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment.

Understanding the potential dangers and legal limitations of fireworks is crucial for preventing eye injuries and other serious accidents. By practicing safety measures and respecting local laws, you can enjoy the beauty of fireworks displays while ensuring the safety of yourself and those around you.

Sources

American Academy of Ophthalmology American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2023). Fireworks Injuries: How to Stay Safe. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries-fireworks

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (2022). 2021 Fireworks Annual Report. Retrieved from https://www.cpsc.gov

Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. (2021). Firework-related Eye Injuries: A Study of Incidents Worldwide. Retrieved from https://www.rcsed.ac.uk

South African Police Service (SAPS) on Fireworks Laws South African Police Service. (2023). Fireworks: Laws and Safety Regulations in South Africa. Retrieved from https://www.saps.gov.za

South African National Council Against Smoking (SANCA) and Local Municipal Guidelines Local Municipality Guidelines (e.g., City of Cape Town). (2023). Fireworks Regulations and By-Laws. Retrieved from https://www.capetown.gov.za

World Health Organization (WHO) – Fireworks and Eye Safety World Health Organization. (2019). Eye Care and Fireworks Safety. Retrieved from https://www.who.int

Eye injuries from fireworks used during celebrations and associated vision loss
Hoskin AK, Low R, de Faber JT, Mishra C, Susvar P, Pradhan E, Rousselot A, Woreta FA, Keay L, Watson SL, Agrawal R; IGATES Fireworks study group. Eye injuries from fireworks used during celebrations and associated vision loss: the international globe and adnexal trauma epidemiology study (IGATES). Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2022 Jan;260(1):371-383. doi: 10.1007/s00417-021-05284-z. Epub 2021 Aug 28. Erratum in: Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol.

Can fireworks-related injuries to children during festivities be prevented?
Smittenberg MN, Lungelow D, Rode H, van As AB, Millar AJ. Can fireworks-related injuries to children during festivities be prevented? S Afr Med J.2010 Jul 26;100(8):525-8. doi: 10.7196/samj.3964. PMID: 20822622.