Pinders Opticians - Keeping your eyes safe during Bonfire Night

Keeping your eyes safe during Bonfire Night

At Pinder’s, we always look forward to Bonfire Night. It’s a special event every year, and a chance to get together with friends and family, huddle up and enjoy a spectacular firework display.

Of course, when it comes to fireworks there are safety considerations to have in mind. While fun for all, they need to be treated with caution. With November 5th approaching, it’s a good time to remind ourselves how to be as safe as possible during Bonfire Night.

Every year in the UK, approximately 300 people suffer serious eye injuries as a result of accidents involving fireworks — and ten of those people lose their eyesight. Injuries that fireworks cause include chemical and thermal burns, corneal abrasions, retinal detachment and more.

So, what can you do to keep your eyes (and those of your loved ones) safe this year?

1. Wear protective eyewear when handling or lighting fireworks — or any time you’re in close proximity to fireworks.

Protective eyewear can help keep your eyes safe from injury should something go wrong. Anytime you’re around fireworks — whether you’re setting them up, or standing nearby — is a good time to have an extra level of protection.

2. Ensure children are supervised at all times.

Fireworks are just as exciting for children as they are for adults. But it’s important that they’re under close supervision while around fireworks — whether that’s at Bonfire Night in the park or in your backyard. And while sparklers are lots of fun, they shouldn’t be given to those under five; and ensure all lit sparklers are kept apart.

3. Keep your distance while lighting fireworks.

When you’re lighting fireworks, we recommend using a long-tipped lighter to keep your hands and face as far away as possible from fuses. Only light one fire work at a time and stay far away once they’re lit. And never return to a lit firework, even if it hasn’t gone off.

4. Buy fireworks that meet British Standards.

It’s important that the fireworks you buy meet British Standards. To make sure check the box! If marked BS 7114, you know they adhere to the safety requirements and regulations.

5. If you, or anyone you know, suffers an eye injury during Bonfire Night seek medical attention right away.

It’s important not to rub, rinse or apply any ointments to the eye areas until a specialist has assessed the injury. Quick action can safe sight and minimise any damage, so do get in touch with urgent care if an eye injury does happen.

Fireworks can be a spectular sight for the eyes, so keep them safe during Bonfire Night and enjoy the view!