Parades, cookouts and fireworks are all part of celebrating the summer season, especially on the 4th of July. However, every year, fireworks turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory for thousands of children and adults injured while using fireworks. All fireworks are hazardous and can cause injury; and despite warnings, the number of injuries every year has remained relatively steady.

According to the American Society of Ocular Trauma, on an annual basis, an average of 400 Americans permanently lose vision in one or both eyes due to fireworks injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that in 2007 around 9,800 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks. Children 10-14 years old had the highest per capita injury rate among all ages.

For children under the age of 5, a third of the total injuries were from sparklers. Many people are not aware that sparklers can burn up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit.

The National Fire Protection Association found that fireworks referred to as “safe and sane” cause more injuries than illegal fireworks, especially to preschool children. In fact, nine out of 10 injuries that required emergency treatment were from fireworks that were approved by federal regulations.

Central Susquehanna Sight Services, a United Way agency, supports the development and enforcement of bans on the importation, sale and use of all fireworks and sparklers, except those used in authorized public displays by competent licensed operators. The group believes it is the only effective means of eliminating the social and economic impact of fireworks trauma. Today, five states ban all consumer sales: Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.

Interestingly, the CPSC also found that more than 100 people were injured from fireworks while attending public displays. Even those fireworks used by professionals can take unexpected flight patterns or result in falling debris from the explosions.

Some suggestions for alternative fireworks-free ideas to celebrate Independence Day include opting for glo-sticks, glo-ropes and glo-jewelry that can safely light the night for kids.

For further information, call Central Susquehanna Sight Services at 286-1471 or Prevent Blindness America’s toll-free hotline at (800) 331-2020 to receive “Safe Summer Celebrations,” a booklet discussing the dangers of fireworks.