When it comes to kids’ parties, setting up decorations is part of the fun. Balloons are popular with everyone, from toddlers to school-aged children. They’re colorful, affordable and your kids can use them for various party games.
However, there is a danger you might not be aware of. Experts say that popping balloons causes hearing loss. Here is what you need to know about this risk to your children’s health.
Why Popping Balloons Causes Hearing Loss
The noise caused by a popping balloon matches the noise of a shotgun going off right next to your ear. Normally, people who use shotguns wear heavy-duty hearing protection. But obviously, children play with balloons without earplugs.
So how loud are balloons exactly? The pop of a balloon is around 140 decibels loud. But doctors say that any noise above 85 decibels is harmful to your hearing health.
Loud noises get considerably more dangerous the nearer they are. Popping balloons causes hearing loss if it happens directly next to your kid’s ear.
What Should You Do About It?
It is extremely important to shield your child from loud noises. After all, children are particularly sensitive to sudden hearing loss. Their senses are still in development.
The hair cells in a child’s inner ear are particularly vulnerable to damage. Additionally, kids are likelier to suffer from ruptured eardrums.
So should you banish balloons from your kids’ parties?
A few decorative balloons probably won’t cause problems. But you need to make sure that the children don’t go around popping them on purpose. Additionally, it is a good idea to provide your kids with different entertainment options.
