DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — As evening approaches over the next week, the sound of cicadas will be replaced by the sounds of firecrackers and other fireworks as we approach the July 4th holiday.
The tiny explosions are fun but can also cause serious and even life-threatening injuries. In a new report issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission it appears fireworks related injuries are on the rise. In 2023, there were 8 deaths and 9,700 injuries reported. More than 40% of the emergency room visits related to fireworks were for treatment of burns. Hand, head and eye injuries were treated across the nation including retinal and corneal injuries.
“A corneal burn can necessitate a cornea transplant in the future,” said Dr. David Sola Del-Valle of OSF Healthcare. “So, all of these are very, very serious injuries that you really want to avoid.”
If you receive an eye injury Dr. Sola recommends the following:
If something goes into your eye don’t try to take it out.
Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen or any blood thinner because it can cause bleeding inside of the eye.
Do not rub your eye and do not touch your eye.
Do not put eye drops or ointments in your eye.
Seek immediate emergency medical attention.
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