Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

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

The Eyecare Trust today (24 October) issued the SPARKLER firework safety code to help prevent avoidable eye injuries on bonfire night.

According to DTI Firework Statistics 285 people received hospital treatment for eye injuries caused by fireworks during Guy Fawkes celebrations (mid Oct – mid November) in 2005.

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 your Guy Fawkes 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
Tel- 01225 423394
Email- 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.

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

Regionalised Statistics

•In Yorkshire and the North East 38 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In Scotland 20 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In Trent 38 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In the East Midlands 21 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In Greater London 25 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In the South East 33 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In the South West 18 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In the West Midland 42 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In the North West 38 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.
•In Wales 12 people received hospital treatment for firework-related eye injuries in 2005.