The 4th of July is right around the corner! This festive holiday is often marked by backyard barbecues, outdoor fun, and dazzling fireworks displays. While fireworks can be an exciting part of the celebration, it's important to take proper safety precautions to avoid potential hearing damage. As a manufacturer of diagnostic audiometric equipment, GSI wants to make sure we are spreading awareness around safe listening practices and hearing protection, especially during high-risk events like the 4th of July.
Below are some quick reminders to share with your patients on noise-induced hearing loss and how they can protect their hearing this weekend.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) remains a significant and preventable public health concern, particularly among individuals aged 12–35, with over 1 billion at risk globally due to recreational noise exposure, according to the World Health Organization. NIHL can result from prolonged exposure to sounds above 70 dB, including music through personal listening devices, occupational noise, and recreational activities.
Particularly, impulse noises are of concern, such as fireworks, which can exceed 140 dB and cause immediate, irreversible cochlear damage. Fireworks at close range (within 3 feet) can reach 150 dB, which is well beyond safe exposure thresholds.
Hearing Protection Tips
By taking precautionary steps, your hearing can be protected. ASHA advises the following hearing protection options:
- Foam Earplugs: These can be purchased at a pharmacy or home improvement store. Foam earplugs often come in bulk, allowing you to share your hearing protection with those around you!
- Custom Earplugs: If you are looking to make an investment in your hearing protection and have trouble with foam earplugs, custom earplugs are an ideal option. You can get impressions of your ear at an audiologist’s office, and they will work with you to find the most appropriate custom option and order earplugs for you.
- Earmuffs: Earmuffs are made with sound attenuating material and are worn over the ear. This is a great option for infants and children.
As you and your family pack up the car for 4th of July fun—whether you're heading to a fireworks show, a parade, or a backyard barbecue, don’t forget to include hearing protection on your packing list! Bringing along earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs is a simple way to keep everyone safe while still enjoying the celebrations.
Laura Prigge, AuD is the Manager of Clinical Education and Training at GSI. Laura received her Doctorate of Audiology degree from AT Still University, a Master's of Arts in Audiology from UCONN and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Communication Disorders from Western Illinois University. Laura’s 20+ years of experience includes providing manufacturing support for a leading hearing aid manufacturer as well as technical audiology training and support for an international audiologic equipment company. Prior to that, she managed education and training at another hearing aid manufacturer and conducted audiologic evaluations on children, adults, and geriatric patients at a retail hearing center.