Lance Burton Says Make This a Magic Summer by Protecting Your Sight

Prevent Blindness America
Friday, 8 June 2001

Schaumburg, IL - Now you see it, now you don't! If that sounds like what a magician might say, it could be, but you guessed wrong. That is what can happen if you play with fireworks.

Statistics show that every year more than 50,000 Americans lose their sight. Vision loss robs people of their independence, mobility and quality of life and costs taxpayers an estimated $4 billion annually. An estimated 5,700 injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms during the one month period surrounding the Fourth of July, 1000 of which were eye-related. An astounding 45 percent of total injuries were in children under the age of 15. In 1999, 16 people lost their lives to firework accidents.

It isn't just bottle rockets and large fireworks that cause injuries. Sparklers, which are sold to kids and adults virtually everywhere in the months preceding the Fourth of July can heat up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. They are the third highest cause of fireworks injuries necessitating trips to the emergency room. One victim was a five-year-old boy who was killed by burns when sparklers ignited in his pocket.

What can you do to help? "Don't try to create spectacular illusions - leave that to professional magicians like myself," said Prevent Blindness America Spokesperson Lance Burton. "Play it safe this summer - don't buy fireworks and don't let your kids play with fireworks. Make this an enjoyable, safe summer by giving the gift of sight," added Burton. There are many safer, yet fun alternatives you can offer your kids this Fourth of July and throughout the summer.

To receive a copy of Safe Summer Celebrations, call Prevent Blindness America toll-free at 1-800-331-2020. The booklet discusses the dangers of fireworks and offers safe alternatives.

For more information, or to contact Prevent Blindness America, see their website at: www.preventblindness.org