State health officials are urging Hoosiers to observe several fireworks and food safety tips as they celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
Eye injuries caused by fireworks are often severe, and can even cause blindness.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, some 12,000 people nationwide are treated each year in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to fireworks. Of these, about 20 percent are eye injuries. Closely supervise older children who are permitted to use fireworks. Don't allow any boisterous play while fireworks are being used. Before using any fireworks, read and follow all warning instructions.