Fireworks can lead to hearing loss

Hearing loss resulting from noise, (known as noise induced hearing loss)  has been documented to result from exposure to sounds of 85 decibels or more.  Fireworks produce sounds that are between 150 and 170 decibels.  So depending on your distance from the firework, you may experience hearing loss or tinnitus as a result.  Children’s hearing is more easily affected and infants even more so.  They need to be much further away and have hearing protection, to keep the sound level in the safe range.  It has also been documented that infants experience a greater peak sound pressure.

The World Health Organisation has recommended that adults are not exposed to peak sounds above 140 Decibels and children 120 Decibels.  Which means that both you and your children should take hearing protection with you to watch the fireworks.  For reference, normal conversation is 60 decibels.

Exposure to loud sounds can result in:

  1. Temporary hearing loss
  2. Tinnitus – ringing in the ears
  3. Permanent hearing loss

These problems can be so easily avoided with a little planning.  Ear plugs for the adults and ear muffs for the babies and kids.  Along with viewing from a decent distance from the fireworks launching site.  If you follow this simple advice you will only have pleasurable memories of the fireworks.