Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

Sight Charity Launches Firework Code

Remember, Remember!
Don't be blind to the dangers of bonfire night - follow the SPARKLER firework code!

The Eyecare Trust1 today (18 October) issued the SPARKLER firework safety code to help prevent avoidable eye injuries during bonfire night and Diwali celebrations.

Despite all the warnings injuries caused by fireworks around bonfire night continue to rise year-on-year. According to Department of Health statistics the number of people injured over the Halloween period (11 October - 8 November) rose by 22% last year, with 302 people suffering serious eye injuries2.

Rockets take first place in the danger stakes, but the second most dangerous firework is the innocent sparkler. Although sparklers are often thought to be one of the safest fireworks, they burn at temperatures up to 2000ºC - hot enough to melt gold - and are responsible for 10% of firework-related eye injuries. When they have finished burning, the tip can remain hot for a minute or two and they are potentially lethal.

Follow the Eyecare Trust's SPARKLER code for a safe and injury free Bonfire Night:

S hield your eyes with protective eyewear when lighting fireworks
P lunge sparklers into a bucket of cold water as soon as they have burnt out
A ttend properly organised displays wherever possible
R ead the instructions on the fireworks with a torch and follow them carefully
K eep all fireworks in a closed metal box and only light one at a time
L eave fireworks that fail to go off - never return to a lit firework
E nsure everyone stands a safe distance away when the fireworks are going off
R emove all debris and flammable objects from your firework display area

Iain Anderson, Chairman of The Eyecare Trust explains: "Eye damage caused by fireworks is often severe and can lead to permanently reduced vision or even blindness, so this year the Trust is urging people to take extra care - especially the under 18 year olds who are most at risk of injury.

Iain continues: "By following the SPARKLER code you can enjoy the Guy Fawkes and Diwali celebrations and protect your sight."

If anyone in your party does suffer a firework eye injury:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly mild injuries. Quick action can minimise long-term damage.

• Do not rub or rinse the injured eye, or apply any ointments to the eye area. If you do, it could increase the damage and make it more difficult for a specialist to provide treatment.

- ends -

For further info please contact:
Rachel Spackman, Eyecare Trust Press Office
T. 01225 423394
E. pr@eyecaretrust.org.uk

Notes for Editors
1. The Eyecare Trust is a registered charity that exists to raise awareness of all aspects of ocular health and the importance of regular eye care. Its trustees include leading optometrists and representatives of the most eminent British ophthalmic institutions.

2. Statistics compiled by the Department of Trade and Industry from information supplied by hospital Accident and Emergency Units in England, Scotland and Wales.