Aurora Lions offer tips for preventing fireworks' injuries
With July 4 coming up, Aurora Noon Lions Club wants to remind the public of the dangers of fireworks.
"The Fourth of July is fast approaching," said Noon Lions president Arvid Meyer of Aurora. "It seems like more people than ever are using high powered explosives, as well as more common sparklers, snakes and fountains.
"According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than 2,000 eye injuries can be expected this year from misuse of fireworks. More than half the injuries will be to children."
Meyer offers the following hints:
• Kids under 10 years old should use sparklers and other nonexplosive items only under close adult supervision. Warn children to keep fireworks away from their faces, and once lit, to not touch them.
• Sparklers can reach temperatures of 2000 degrees, enough to melt some metals. Sparks from fountains, sparklers and other mild fireworks can injure the surface of the eye, causing lose of eye sight or blindness.
• Older children and adults should never assume an item that did not explode is a dud. Many injuries, and even deaths have occurred by users either looking at or touching a supposed dud.
• All users of fireworks, kids or adults, should use protective safety glasses.
According to Meyer, "For a safe and happy Fourth of July, following some simple rules can make a difference in your celebration."
Founded in 1922, Aurora Noon Lions Club meets on the first and third Mondays at Luigi's Pizza and Fun Center, 732 Prairie St. in Aurora. Prospective members are welcome. Call (630) 892-8045 or visit www.facebook.com/auroranoonlions for more information.
With the motto "We Serve," Lions volunteers focus on supporting causes including hearing and vision impairment, hunger, the environment, childhood cancer and diabetes.
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Some 1.42 million members in more than 48,000 clubs serve in over 200 countries and geographic areas worldwide.
Since 1917, Lions have strengthened local communities through hands-on service and humanitarian projects and extend service impact through the Lions Clubs International Foundation. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit lionsclubs.org.