VSP Blog » fireworks

New study warns of eye risk from bottle rockets

Lisa P. — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:55:03 +0000

Vanderbilt University recently came out with a new study that shows the long term vision effects caused by improper use of fireworks. Four years and 10 patients later, researchers found that the majority of patients treated for eye injuries caused by bottle rockets end up with reduced vision or permanent vision loss. None of the patients were wearing protective eyewear. They hope this study will help stress the importance of taking precautions, like wearing eyewear, when handling fireworks for both children and adults.

More on this new study is available on Vanderbilt University’s website.

Protect Your Eyes this Fourth of July!

Lisa P. — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 17:29:00 +0000

Independence Day, Fourth of July, is right around the corner and that means picnics, BBQ’s, outdoor activities and most importantly, fireworks! We want to make sure you see them bright and clear so we encourage you to wear sunglasses throughout the day. Lets face it, shades look cool, but did you know they are essential to eye health?

VSP doctor Stephen Cohen from Scottsdale, Arizona says ”there’s increasing evidence that ultraviolet rays in sunlight can significantly increase your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Because both conditions can threaten healthy vision, I recommend wearing sunglasses on sunny days year-round. Plus, you’ll experience better night vision when you wear sunglasses on sunny days.” This is a plus for the fireworks show!

Here are some tips to picking out the right shades to protect your eyes.

Tommy Bahama Aviator

Labels: Make sure they carry a consumer-protection label stating they’re 99-100% UV-absorbent, or provide UV absorption up to 400 nanometers (nm).
Go big or wrap it: Bigger frames and lenses, and also wrap-around styles, give you more UV protection because they block peripheral rays. Also, this is the trend this season!
Go polar: Polarized lenses block out sunlight glare bouncing off windshields, pavement, and other smooth surfaces.
Consider color: Gray lenses are best. Why? They don’t change colors. Green and brown lenses are good too.

Often times, store-bought fireworks can emit smoke. Here are some tips for smokey-eyes:

Rinse your eyes with clean water regularly; at least once a day or more often if they burn or itch.
Try not to rub your eyes, since you might transfer dust and ash from your hands or face to your eyes that could scratch or irritate them. Wash your hands regularly, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to keep your eyes refreshed and help get rid of dust and particles that can irritate eyes.

We hope you have a fun and safe Fourth of July this year!

You'll shoot your eye out!

Jessica G. — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:00:26 +0000

Well, maybe not literally. But with the 4th of July just around the corner, it’s important to keep eye safety in mind as you celebrate with your friends and family.

Our friends at Prevent Blindness America just released tips and supporting data to keep you and your kids safer this holiday. According to their release, more than 40 percent of all fireworks injuries were to children under the age of 15.

What can you do to protect your kids’ eyes during fireworks season? Check out Prevent Blindness America’s Web site to learn more.