How Loud Are Fireworks? Protect Your Hearing at Every Celebration
Whether it’s the 4th of July or the Friday Night Fireworks at Coney Island, fireworks are an awe-inspiring way to mark any celebration. The question that arises, though, is – just how loud are fireworks?
Protecting your hearing is one of the most important ways to prevent auditory loss. An enormous amount of hearing loss in America is noise-induced – according to the CDC, it’s the second most common cause. The good news is that this is largely preventable if you take the right precautions.
Turn Down the Noise, Not the Fun
#1 Keep Your Distance
It’s recommended to stand at least 500 feet away from the fireworks launch site. So, yes, that means we don’t recommend buying your own fireworks and setting them off in your yard, especially if you don’t have enough space to get far enough away before launch. The risks to your hearing – and the safety of those around you, particularly children and pets – just aren’t worth it.
#2 Wear Ear Protection
Even if you’re standing at a safe distance, it’s still a good idea to play it safe. The basic earplugs you can find at the drugstore should provide ample protection for adults and teens. However, for children – especially babies – go with well-fitting earmuffs.
Some might prefer to have custom earplugs created for the best possible comfort and protective seal. Either way, having the appropriate hearing protection devices is essential for protecting your hearing health.
#3 Choose A Professional Firework Show
Frequently Asked Questions
- How loud is too loud? Hearing damage can be caused by any sound 70 decibels or louder, especially if you have prolonged exposure. A good rule of thumb is that if it’s louder than your washing machine, you need to protect your ears!
- How many decibels are fireworks? Up close, a firework explosion is between 150 and 175 decibels – well over the maximum safe noise level.
- Can fireworks damage your hearing? Getting too close to fireworks can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss or tinnitus, but if you take appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the delightful lights without worry.
Protect Your Ears With NYC Hearing Associates
If you’ve been wondering, “How loud are fireworks?” – now you can protect yourself and keep your friends and family safe, too! Whether you’re attending a concert or have a noisy workplace, protecting your hearing from loud noises should always be a priority.
A regular expert hearing evaluation can help you understand your current hearing needs and work with your audiologist to prevent future damage. Should our team pick up any auditory loss, we’ll help you get the support you need to continue to hear well and enjoy your next celebrations – including the fireworks! Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment.
