July is Fireworks Eye Safety month. We asked Dr. Jatinder Bansal, O.D. how to keep your eyes safe during the holiday and throughout the summer.

Many eye injuries can be easily avoided. As the weather becomes warmer and people are spending more and more time outdoors, the number of eye injuries tends to increase. In 2008, seven people died and an estimated 7,000 were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the United States.

Here are some of my suggestions for enjoying fireworks and other summer activities SAFELY:
· Avoid any toys or fireworks that fly or shoot projectiles. Sparklers burn at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, and bottle rockets can stray off course or throw shrapnel when they explode.

· Attend only authorized public fireworks displays conducted by licensed operators, but be aware that even professional displays can be dangerous.

· Wear protective eyewear if you are working in an area where sparks, fumes or splashes may occur (such as when adding gas to your lawnmower).

· Sports goggles with polycarbonate lenses and side shields should be worn when participating in racquetball, tennis, and soccer. For baseball and lacrosse, athletes should wear a helmet with a polycarbonate face mask or wire shield

· Make sure your sunglasses have ultraviolet (UV) filters. Sunlight may not seem harmful but continuous exposure without protection can cause permanent damage to your eyes.

If an accident does occur, there are some things to remember to do right away to minimize the damage to the eye:

· Do NOT rub the eye as doing so may increase bleeding or make the injury worse.

· Do NOT attempt to rinse out the eye with any substance. This can be even more damaging than rubbing. The only exception is if you have access to an eyewash station.

· Do NOT apply pressure to the eye itself. After an injury, the eye should be protected from further damage.

· See your doctor immediately.

Photos by Flickr users philos from Athens and anthonycramp