Firework safety warning from Moorfields

Moorfields eye hospital has highlighted the importance of following the firework safety code to avoid eye injury in the run up to Guy Fawkes night on November 5.

The hospital said that people should opt for an organised display rather than setting off fireworks at home. A spokesperson said: 'Last year the hospital received about seven emergency cases where people suffered trauma to the eye or in certain cases, permanent retinal damage. Anyone who has a firework injury should seek emergency help as soon as possible.'

Statistics released by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) from last year have also revealed that 25 per cent (285) of the total 1,141 reported injuries in the UK were to the eye. A further 30 per cent (349) of injuries were to the hand 13 per cent (152) were to the face and 9 per cent (113) were to the head.