Fireworks Safety Tips To Protect Kids' Eyes During Diwali

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a celebration full of colors and fireworks, which are a treat to watch. But with all these celebrations comes a lot of caution for kids. Fireworks are beautiful but may be hazardous if not dealt with carefully. The incidence of eye injuries due to fireworks during Diwali has always been alarming and may cause long-term damage unless we take proper precautions. 

According to a Retrospective Study on Clinical Profile of Patients with Firecracker-Related Injury, the annual incidence of firecracker-related injuries in India is 7 in every 100,000 population. With children particularly vulnerable, research has shown that injuries often impact critical body areas, with hands, face, and eyes being the most affected. For instance, a study on Fireworks injuries in children during Diwali highlights that the hands are injured in 62 per cent of cases, followed by the face (32 per cent) and eyes (10 per cent). Cracker misuse and device failures contribute heavily to these incidents, as evidenced by a Firework injuries: a ten-year study where 41 per cent of injuries were caused by misuse and 35 per cent by device malfunctions. Moreover, among young children, 35 per cent of the injuries occur in those aged 5-14 years, with a significant 92 per cent occurring while unsupervised.

Here are some simple tips to protect kids' eyes during the celebrations:

1. A Safe Distance

Fireworks can be very exciting and thrilling to watch up close, but it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance while enjoying the display. Encourage children to stand back and observe from a safe location. A viewing distance of 10-20 feet is recommended to prevent accidental eye injuries from sparks or debris. When watching fireworks, it’s important to create a designated viewing area that is well away from the launch site. This not only ensures safety but also allows for a more enjoyable experience. Explaining to children that even small fireworks can produce unexpected sparks, which can be harmful if they get too close. Reinforce the idea that safety comes first, and watching from a distance allows everyone to enjoy the colors and sounds without worrying about potential dangers.

2. Protective Eyeglasses

Wearing protective eyewear is one of the best ways to shield your child’s eyes from unpredictable sparks that can occur during fireworks displays. ZEISS offers high-quality protective glasses designed specifically for this purpose. These glasses reduce glare, providing a clear and comfortable view while effectively protecting the eyes from flying debris. Their specialty lenses are not only durable but also lightweight, making them easy for children to wear throughout the festivities without discomfort. It’s essential to ensure that children feel comfortable and confident in their eyewear, as this encourages them to keep the glasses on during the entire fireworks show.

ZEISS protective eyewear is designed to be stylish, appealing to kids and encouraging them to wear them willingly. By using these glasses, parents can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries while allowing their children to fully enjoy the vibrant colors and exciting sounds of Diwali fireworks. Ensuring that kids have the right protective eyewear during these celebrations allows everyone to relax and focus on the joy of the festival, knowing their eyes are safe from potential harm.

3. Avoid DIY Fireworks

Make sure the fireworks you're handling are certified and legal before we go into particular advice. 
When prohibited, professional (i.e., not intended for personal use), and homemade equipment is used, fireworks situations become even more deadly. The likelihood of something going wrong and injuring someone increases when fireworks contain illicit components like fuses or unapproved chemicals. Also, never try making your own fireworks.

How can you determine if your fireworks are appropriate for domestic usage and are legal? Make sure you avoid fireworks packaged in brown paper as this indicates that they are intended for professional presentations and may be dangerous. 

4. Always Supervise Children

Due to their innate curiosity, kids might want to approach the fireworks show. Always go with an adult to help them understand the importance of maintaining a safe distance. Guidance is required even when handling sparklers, since improper handling might result in sparks getting into the eyes. When children pop crackers, always keep an eye on them and don't let them do it alone. Avoid setting off fireworks in confined quarters and busy areas. To preserve social detachment, keep a safe distance from people and avoid embracing and shaking hands.

5. Avoid Touching the Eyes

Sparks or small fragments of fireworks can sometimes enter the eyes. If your child complains, do not let him rub or touch his eyes to avoid aggravating any potential damage. Gently clean out the eyes with a clean dampened cloth.

Diwali is a time for joy and togetherness, therefore it's important to make sure that any eye injuries or pain don't ruin your festivities. You can safeguard your eyes and have a fun and secure Diwali by heeding these safety precautions. Remember that your eyes are precious, and that you can safeguard your vision and well-being during this beautiful festival of lights by following a few easy eye safety tips.

Dr. Anuja Desai

Guest Author Consultant and Head of Ophthalmology Department, KD Hospital