Proceeds from the walkathon fund the many sight-saving services and programs of Prevent Blindness America. Firework-related injuries are growing. No place is safe near consumer fireworks. Bystanders are more frequently injured than the fireworks users. Sparklers, a major cause of eye injury in children, burn up to 1800 o F, hot enough to melt gold.
Bottle rockets are the greatest cause of eye injuries requiring hospitalization.
Their flight path is unpredictable, their fuses nonstandard, and their explosive power can turn a bottle or can into shrapnel. There is no safe way to use consumer fireworks, says Brian B. Smith, chair of Prevent Blindness America. You don't want them in the hands of children or adults. The only safe way to use consumer fireworks is not to use them at all. Participants in the Light the Night for Sight walkathon will include members of national corporations and national organizations, Prevent Blindness staff, volunteers, members of the community, those who have benefited from Prevent Blindness America s many programs, and we hope, you and your family.