The holiday season is a time for family, fun & festivity – but it can also be a dangerous time as each year people suffer eye injuries caused by unsafe toys & celebrations.
When choosing gifts, select toys and gifts appropriate for a child’s age & maturity level. Avoid toys with sharp protruding parts like paint or pellet guns, rifles and darts. If you are giving sports equipment, be sure to include approriate protective gear, such as helmets, facemasks or goggles. These gifts can reduce eye injuries by 90 percent.
Christmas tree branches and needles can be hazardous to eyes, so be especially careful when untying or decorating your tree. The branches can quickly burst forward, injuring your eyes. Hang all glass ornaments out of a child’s reach to avoid any potential harm.
Celebrating the New Year ushers in the excitement to include fireworks. Schedule your holiday to attend professional fireworks displays. Never allow children to play with fireworks or sparklers because there is no safe way to handle them.
Even opening champagne can be dangeours. Be sure corks are pointed away when opening a bottle. Prevent the cork from popping off uncontrollably by covering it with a towel and slowly turning it wigh a slight upward pull. It’s important to keep the bottle cold; sparkling wine should be chilled at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit before opening.
Have a great holiday season and remember to celebrate responsibly. If you experience any eye injuries seek medical attention promptly.
Information from the American Acedemy of Ophthalmology – For more, visit EyeSmart
