Prevent Blindness has designated June 28 to July 4 as the sixth annual Fireworks Safety Week, an awareness campaign focused on educating the public about the risk of fireworks-related eye injuries ahead of Independence Day celebrations.

The campaign coincides with preparations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4. Prevent Blindness offers free educational resources that eyecare professionals can share with their patients, including a dedicated fireworks safety webpage, a flyer titled “Fireworks and Your Eyes: Celebrate Safely,” and fact sheets.

As part of this year’s initiative, Prevent Blindness released an episode of its Focus on Eye Health Expert Series featuring Thomas L. Steinemann, MD, a professor of ophthalmology at Case Western Reserve University and a specialist in cornea and external eye disease. In the program, Dr. Steinemann discusses the potential impact of fireworks-related injuries on vision and provides guidance on responding to serious eye injuries.

According to data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were associated with 11 deaths and an estimated 14,700 injuries in 2024—an increase of approximately 38% and 52%, respectively, compared with 2023. Adults ages 25 to 44 accounted for the largest share of reported injuries, followed by individuals ages 15 to 24.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that fireworks-related eye injuries can include globe ruptures, chemical and thermal burns, corneal abrasions, and retinal detachments—all of which may result in permanent vision impairment or vision loss.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary. We urge all Americans to celebrate safely by avoiding consumer fireworks,” said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. “Accidents happen even during firework displays conducted by licensed professionals, so please use caution when attending those as well.” OM