Health
Commissioner Issues Advisory about Foam Parties
Suffolk
County Department of Health Services Commissioner James Tomarken, MD, MPH, MBA,
MSW, today advised residents, especially parents and guardians, about foam parties/fests,
gatherings where soapy foam is sprayed onto participants. At foam fests/events,
the foam is distributed in a variety of manners, including from blowers on the
ground or attached to the ceiling. Several feet of foam can accumulate. Foam
events may occur in a variety of venues, and many do not have age restrictions.
According
to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, products used at
these events to produce foam may contain ingredients similar to those in soaps
and shampoos, such as sodium lauryl sulfate. Some formulations used at foam
parties are proprietary, and chemicals, chemical compositions, and
concentrations are unknown.
According
to health officials, there is potential risk associated with foam parties/fests,
including:
-
Eye injuries, ranging from mild redness and
irritation to corneal burns or abrasions, which can impair vision for many
days;
-
Skin irritation or rash;
-
Injury from objects hidden by the foam;
-
Falling due to the slippery dance floor;
-
Electric shock;
-
Unwanted physical contact due to decreased
visibility caused by the foam.
“There are risks associated with
foam parties,” said Dr. Tomarken. “We
advise residents to assess the venue and look for possible dangers. Ask
yourself a few basic questions. Are
their electrical appliances in the area where the foam is being sprayed? Are
there obstacles that may cause injury? Is alcohol being consumed? Is there
glass present? Is there supervision for youngsters? Use good judgment before
entering the foam spraying venue or allowing a minor to enter.”
Eye injuries resulting from foam
parties/fests have been reported to health officials in Florida. Dr. Tomarken agrees
with Florida health officials who recommend that you take the following
precautions to protect your eyes if you or your children plan to attend a foam
party/fest:
-
Wear goggles while in the foam.
-
Limit time spent in the foam and take frequent
breaks out of the foam area.
-
Avoid standing directly under or near the blowers
where foam is being produced.
-
Rinse your face and eyes with clean water frequently.
-
Avoid foam exposure to the face and eyes in
particular.
-
Exit the foam area if the foam accumulates above
the waist.
-
Avoid rubbing eyes if they are burning or
irritated. Instead, be sure to rinse with clean water.
If
you get injured during a foam party and require immediate medical attention,
call 911 or go to a local emergency room. If you believe you are experiencing
reactions related to the foam, such as skin or eye irritation, call the Poison
Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
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