Fireworks are one of the loudest moments of the year for children's ears. Single firecrackers reach peak levels of 120 to 150 dB within a few metres. For comparison: occupational safety recommends hearing protection from about 85 dB of continuous noise, and from 120 dB even brief exposure becomes critical. Distance matters a lot, but on the balcony or at the neighbours' you cannot control it.
Which hearing protection for which age?
Babies and toddlers up to about 24 months: The MINI+ earmuffs have an elastic band instead of a hard headband, weigh 112 g and attenuate with SNR 24 dB to EN 352-1:2020. They fit a head circumference of 38.5 to 49 cm. Earplugs are not an option at this age; the ear canal is too small and the child could swallow them.
Children from kindergarten age to 16 years: The Kiddies earmuffs (head circumference 52 to 60 cm, 188 g) attenuate with SNR 28 dB to EN 352-1:2020. The headband is adjustable and grows with the child. For children who do not like earmuffs, the Kids+ earplugs with SNR 29 dB to EN 352-2:2020 are the alternative.
Adults: If you want to hear the fireworks but soften the bang, take the Strong+ earplugs (SNR 23 dB). If you want as much quiet as possible, choose the Work+ earmuffs with SNR 33 dB.
Unsure about the size? The size guide gives you a recommendation by head circumference or age.
Five practical tips for the evening
First: let your child wear the hearing protection at home a few days beforehand, so it is nothing new on the night. Second: earmuffs only seal when no hat or glasses frame sits between cushion and head; a thin hat over the earmuffs works, underneath it does not. Third: keep your distance, at least 30 to 50 metres from firecrackers, and never stand near rocket launches. Fourth: put the hearing protection on before midnight, not once it starts. Fifth: if your child shows persistent symptoms after the fireworks, such as ringing in the ears or pain, see a paediatrician or ENT specialist. That belongs in expert hands.
What does the SNR value mean?
SNR stands for Single Number Rating and states in decibels by how much a hearing protector reduces noise on average. At 120 dB of firecracker noise, the Kiddies (SNR 28 dB) leave roughly 92 dB in theory. Read more in the guide What is SNR? and the comparison Earmuffs or earplugs?.
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