by: Fran Springer
Of course, you want to watch the fireworks and enjoy the day, but here are a few tips you can take to protect your family’s hearing this holiday.
Red, White and Move – We recommend that you sit at least 500 feet from where the fireworks are launched. Fireworks noise for spectators 800 feet away ranges from 88 to 126 dB. But from 10 feet away, it’s 155 dB—louder than a military jet takeoff! Increasing the distance between you and the source of the sound will help reduce the intensity (or decibels) at which the sound is reaching your ears.
Soften the Sounds – When you know you will be exposed to loud sounds, use earplugs. The disposable earplugs, made of foam or silicone, are available at local pharmacies. They are inexpensive, practical, portable and easy to use. Custom ear protection crafted to fit each unique ear is also available from Hearing Partners. Custom protection ensures a proper fitting mold each time, further reducing the risk of unwanted noise exposure.
Over an extended period, repeated exposure to loud noise, presents serious risks to hearing health. If you must shout over the noise to be heard by someone within arm’s length, the noise is probably in the dangerous range. Here are other warning signs:
- You have pain in your ears after leaving a noisy area.
- You hear ringing or buzzing (tinnitus) in your ears immediately after exposure to noise.
- You suddenly have difficulty understanding speech after exposure to noise; you can hear people talking but can’t understand them.
Declare your dedication to hearing health. Contact us for more information on how to protect your hearing.
Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July!
