Festival firecracker accidents: Why children are most at risk of eye injuries

As the festive season approaches, bright celebrations are marked by sparkling and colorful bursting of firecrackers.

- DR NEERAJ SANDUJA

Fireworks have been a tradition due to their ability to make the occasion more festive. However, along with fun come the dangers of burning and especially the danger of eye injuries. Children being the closest to enjoyment pose a great risk and therefore their guardians and parents should be prudent and take high prevention measures to protect them.

WHY ARE CHILDREN AT GREATER RISK?

1. Lack of Awareness

Curiosity and excitement comes naturally and these are only a few of the attributes children possess when celebrating a festival. However, their excitement often leads them to take risks especially while using firecrackers. In addition, many younger children may not comprehend the inherent risks or the necessity of taking safety measures, further raising the chances of accidents. Their inability to respond fast enough during dangerous circumstances places them at a greater risk of suffering eye injuries.

2. HEIGHT FACTOR

Another disadvantage children have over adults is that they are shorter, meaning that in the event of misfired or poorly used firecrackers, children are at greater risk. Many aerial and ground firecrackers have low range due to a relatively shorter height and tend to be more dangerous to children in close proximity to a blast. This makes them particularly susceptible to stray sparks, shrapnel, or smoke from the crackers, which may be hazardous to their eyes.