Fireworks eye injuries: Houston Methodist expert shares 5 tips to stay safe this July 4th

HOUSTON – With the nation’s 250th Independence Day right around the corner, a Houston Methodist ophthalmology expert is urging families to take a closer look at fireworks safety — specifically when it comes to protecting their eyes.

Dr. Andrew Lee, the Herb and Jean Lyman Centennial Chair in Ophthalmology at Houston Methodist, says the spike in fireworks-related eye injuries every July is not only predictable — it’s preventable.

“Every year, we see a similar pattern,” Lee said. “The majority of firework-related eye injuries happen in July and many involve children. These are not rare accidents — they’re expected and preventable.”

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Study reveals scope of the problem

Lee co-led a national study analyzing 20 years of data on fireworks-related eye injuries. The research found an estimated 41,700 emergency department visits nationwide tied to fireworks-related eye trauma.

The findings paint a particularly concerning picture for younger Americans. Nearly two-thirds of those injuries occurred in individuals under 18, with children ages 6 to 11 identified as an especially vulnerable group. Boys were disproportionately affected, accounting for roughly three in four cases reported.

5 tips to prevent fireworks eye injuries

Lee says most fireworks-related eye injuries can be avoided with a few simple precautions. Here are his five tips heading into the holiday weekend:

1. Supervise children at all times around fireworks
2. Maintain a safe distance from active fireworks
3. Wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks
4. Leave igniting fireworks to responsible adults
5. Attend professional displays instead of using consumer fireworks

What parents need to know about sparklers

One of the most common — and underestimated — hazards? Sparklers.

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Lee noted that children should always be closely supervised and kept at a safe distance from fireworks, especially sparklers, which can burn at extremely high temperatures and pose serious risks to the eyes. He also cautioned that spectators should never stand close to fireworks or attempt to relight malfunctioning ones, as unpredictable explosions can send debris flying toward the face.

The message is simple: the safest way to enjoy the fireworks this Fourth of July is to leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals and watch from a safe distance.