As families across the country prepare for Fourth of July celebrations, it’s important to understand the dangers associated with fireworks. Experts estimate approximately 10,000-15,000 people are injured every year from fireworks displays, with thousands reporting hearing and vision loss. Enjoy fireworks safely this summer by following these tips from the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
1. Wear Hearing and Eye ProtectionÂ
Fireworks can produce sounds up to 175 decibels (dB), louder than a jackhammer or a jet plane taking off. Experts agree that even brief exposure to sounds louder than 140 dB can cause hearing damage, leading to tinnitus, temporary hearing loss, or even permanent hearing loss. As with many sources of loud noise, repeated or prolonged exposure also compounds the risk. To protect your ears during fireworks displays, use high-fidelity, industrial-grade foam earplugs. Earmuffs are generally recommended for children because they can cover the entirety of the ear, ensuring greater protection.
All spectators and anyone handling fireworks should wear eye protection certified by the American National Standards Institute, such as safety goggles or glasses. Regular glasses or sunglasses are not sufficient protection.
2. Keep a Safe Distance Away from FireworksÂ
As a general rule, the further you are from fireworks displays, the safer you are. Experts agree that individuals must be at least 500 feet from any fireworks display to prevent hearing loss, eye injury, and other harm. Observe all safety barriers and follow posted safety instructions from fireworks and public health experts.
3. Use Noise-Monitoring TechnologyÂ
Your smartphone or smartwatch may be able to help protect you from dangerous noise levels. Many forms of smart technology have sensors to detect when you may be in an area with noise loud enough to cause hearing damage. Additionally, apps like the NIOSH Sound Level Meter can turn your phone into a portable dB meter, measuring whether you are being exposed to potentially hazardous noise with the click of a button.
4. Skip the Home DisplaysÂ
While fireworks are legal to use in some areas, most injuries (and property damage) from fireworks occur from amateur use. Even small, seemingly innocuous fireworks, such as sparklers, burn extremely hot and can cause injury in an untrained hand. Additionally, many injuries associated with amateur fireworks affect bystanders and children who were not involved in the fireworks display at all.
The Bottom Line
Leave the fireworks displays for the professionals and follow the guidance of experts dedicated to injury prevention and public safety. If you’re worried you’ve experienced hearing or vision damage associated with fireworks, contact a TPMG provider in Hampton Roads, VA for evaluation and treatment.
Common Signs of Hearing Damage
Common signs of hearing damage include, but are not limited to:
- Difficulty understanding others in conversation
- Speech and sounds appear muffled
- Requiring the volume to be turned up all the way on electronics (radio, tv, etc.)
- Ringing in ears (tinnitus)
- Repeatedly asking others to speak more slowly or loudly
Common Signs of Vision Loss
Common initial signs of vision loss include, but are not limited to:
- Double vision
- Halos around lights
- Clouded, hazy, blurry, or dim vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Tunnel vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Progressive expansion of shadow over your visual field
Contact Our Eye & Ear Professionals in Hampton Roads, VA
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, achedule a consult with a TPMG specialist to learn more about how you can reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. For hearing loss and audiology services, contact TPMG Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists (ENT) in Suffolk, Newport News and Williamsburg, VA. For eye care, contact TPMG The Ophthalmology Center in Virginia Beach.
The information shared is not intended to be medical advice nor is it meant to replace a professional consultation with a healthcare provider. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of TPMG or its providers and physicians.’
