The end of the year is approaching. The first fireworks are already echoing through the streets. Many people and animals are afraid to even step outside in December. That’s not surprising, because as many as 50% of fireworks victims are bystanders!

And did you know that…

  • Did at least 156 people suffer eye injuries during the recent New Year’s celebrations?
  • 10% of fireworks victims with eye injuries end up losing sight in one eye?
  • Can 80% of eye injuries be prevented by wearing good-quality polycarbonate fireworks goggles?

Fireworks Victims Speak Out

At Koninklijke Visio, the center of expertise for people who are visually impaired or blind, they see—just as at the OOG in OOG Association—the lasting impact that fireworks can have on people’s lives every year. Both organizations help fireworks victims with eye injuries rebuild their lives.

With this campaign, the organization aims to show that behind each of these numbers is a resilient person—someone who is rebuilding his or her life with courage, perseverance, and support. The campaign features the following experts (including those with firsthand experience):

Jan van der Heijden

Jan is 58 years old when he wishes his neighbors a happy 2015 on the driveway of his home. Moments later: a stabbing pain in his face. He wakes up in the hospital with only one eye left. A firework launched by a boy from across the street had struck his eye. His life changed in an instant.

Willem van Ansem

Willem is 16 years old when he celebrates New Year’s Eve with friends. As 2023 begins, he tries to light a firework. He fails. When he tries to relight it later, it explodes in his face. Willem is left blind in both eyes. There is still a chance he might regain some of his vision.

Tjeerd de Faber

Tjeerd de Faber is an ophthalmologist specializing in eye injuries caused by fireworks, and has been affiliated with the Rotterdam Eye Hospital since 1991. He traditionally treats fireworks victims with eye injuries during the “night of horror” between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Tjeerd de Faber is also one of the initiators of the Fireworks Manifesto. As Tjeerd de Faber says: “Fireworks are one of the most beautiful things the eyes can see. As long as they aren’t the last thing your eyes see.”

Videos

The campaign includes three videos that will be shared on social media in the coming days. Will you join in?