Five tips to protect your hearing from July 4th fireworks and other summer celebrations

Independence Day is Tuesday, and as you prepare for your July 4th celebrations, prepare to protect your hearing.

As the skies light up with dazzling displays, protect your hearing from potential risks fireworks pose to hearing, urges ENT and Allergy Associates, of the often-overlooked danger associated with so many summer celebrations.

“Fireworks’ high decibel levels pose a significant risk, especially for children, individuals with pre-existing hearing conditions, and those in close proximity to the detonation,” says Sara Lerner, Assistant Director of Clinical Audiology with ENT and Allergy Associates. “It’s important to recognize that the harm caused by fireworks is not limited to a single instance.”

“Frequent exposure to loud noises, even for short durations, can accumulate over time and result in irreversible hearing damage,” Lerner added.

Fireworks produce explosive noises that can reach dangerous decibel levels, often exceeding 150 decibels (dB). For comparison, normal conversation typically measures around 60 dB, while prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can lead to permanent hearing loss.

“Remember, protecting your hearing is a lifelong commitment,” added Lerner. “By implementing these tips, you can enjoy your 4th of July and summer celebrations while taking proactive steps to preserve your hearing health for years to come.”

FIVE TIPS TO SAFEGUARD YOUR HEARING DURING JULY 4TH AND SUMMER NOISES

• Maintain a Safe Distance: When attending fireworks displays, try to position yourself at a safe distance from the launch site. As a general rule, staying at least 500 feet away can significantly reduce the intensity of the sound waves reaching your ears.
• Use Hearing Protection: Invest in high-quality earplugs or earmuffs specifically designed for noise reduction. These…