A doctor has given advice on protecting your eyes from pyrotechnics on New Year's Eve

Among Russians who use pyrotechnics on New Year's Eve, 20% choose Bengal lights and Roman candles, 11% prefer fireworks, firecrackers and clappers, and only 2% launch firecrackers and rockets. This is stated in the results of the survey "Sber Eapteca" and World Vision Clinic, which were familiarized by "Izvestia" on December 7. World Vision chief ophthalmologist Zarina Kurachinova gave some tips on eye protection from pyrotechnics.

The majority of respondents (67%) admitted that they do not plan to use pyrotechnics in the New Year. At the same time, among those who will use it, 40% of respondents choose the option to turn away as the main measure to protect their eyes from sparks when launching fireworks and New Year salutes. 20% cover their eyes with their hand, another 20% close their eyes tightly, 10% wear protective glasses, and the remaining 10% put a hat over their eyes.

In addition, according to the survey, 38% said they never set off fireworks, firecrackers or light sparklers indoors. 24% try to move as far away as possible, 15% remove children and animals at a distance when using pyrotechnics, 9% avoid the use of rotating fireworks, and 7% each noted that they do not use expired or damped equipment.

"For effective eye protection, you should always keep a safe distance from pyrotechnic devices - at least 20-30 meters. At the same time, even if the device is installed correctly, an explosion or unsuccessful launch can lead to injuries, so the technique should be directed in the opposite direction from people," - said Kurachinova.

At the same time fireworks should not be launched in windy weather, so that sparks do not get into the eyes. To protect the eyes when working with small pyrotechnics, especially indoors, the doctor advised to use safety glasses. According to her, even a small spark can damage the cornea or retina of the eye.

"Special attention should be paid to the safety of children. Do not allow children to launch pyrotechnics, even if they are "safe" sparklers. Explain the safety rules to them and always control the process," emphasized Kurachinova.

If an eye injury still could not be avoided, the first thing to do is to rinse the eye with clean warm water to remove the spark or other foreign bodies.

"Under no circumstances should you try to rub your eye - this can aggravate the situation. After rinsing the eye, you should see a doctor immediately, even if the injury seems minor. For more serious injuries, such as corneal cuts, chemical burns or large particles entering the eye, immediate medical attention is required," the doctor specified.

According to her, before the ambulance arrives, a sterile dressing should be applied to protect the eye from further damage, and one should try not to move the eye.

In turn, the pharmacist and head of the pharmacy "Sber Eapteki" Natalia Bolotova recommended to check their medicine cabinet before the New Year and if necessary to replenish the stock of antiseptic agents and analgesic drugs-analgesics, so that in case of eye injuries to have everything necessary for first aid.

Earlier, December 2, public figure, expert on housing and utilities Dmitry Bondar reminded that when using pyrotechnics should take into account local laws on silence, the expert emphasized. In different regions, the time allowed for launching fireworks may differ. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify these norms to avoid fines and conflicts with neighbors.