Purdue News
Purdue News
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June 16, 2004 Fourth of July fireworks can lead to hearing damageLetting freedom ring a little too loudly this Fourth of July can be harmful to your hearing, says a Purdue University audiologist. "Think about ear care like skin care during the summer months," says Robert Novak, clinical professor and director of clinical education in audiology. "When you pack the sunscreen for the Fourth of July picnic, include a few pairs of disposable ear plugs for the evening fireworks show. "Noisy summer events, especially concerts, fireworks and even mowing the lawn, can be harmful to a person's hearing. And unlike a sunburn, you may not realize the harm to your body right away." According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, nearly 28 million people in the United States suffer from some form of hearing loss. About 40 percent of those people are under the age of 65. Hearing damage often accrues over time, Novak says. "Large public fireworks shows can be compared to attending a concert with loud, amplified music blaring from speakers that are pointed at the audience," Novak says. "The distance from fireworks explosions is the deciding factor as to how loud the sound will be, as well as if there are reflective surfaces, such as tall buildings, to echo or amplify the sound." People who are using their own personal fireworks should set them off in an open field to reduce echoes, he says. They should also move as far away from the blast as possible after each device is ignited. Novak also can talk about how to properly fit ear protection and describe the dangerous decibel levels. CONTACT: Novak, (765) 494-1534, rnovak@sla.purdue.edu
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