Eye Safety at Home: 6 Easy Tips to Avoid Eye Injuries

Did you know that nearly half of all eye injuries each year occur in and around the home?

Our eyes are precious and irreplaceable. Yet, it’s all too easy to overlook the importance of eye safety, especially within the comfort of our own homes. We often take for granted the potential risks that exist within our daily activities, which can lead to devastating eye injuries.

Causes of Common Household Eye Injuries

Some common household injuries involve:

• using cleaning products
• cooking with hot grease and oil
• removing corks from champagne bottles
• drilling or hammering screws or nails
• using curling irons near the eyes
• falling due to loose rugs or railings

In the yard, mowing the lawn and using equipment to maintain landscaping may also prove hazardous.

Those who have workshops in their garage can also sustain injuries from tools, chemicals, or any task that produces fragments, dust, or other eye irritants.

6 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Eye Injury

There are some measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of injury to the eyes.

1. It has been estimated that 90% of eye injuries could have been prevented by wearing protective eyewear.
2. Be sure to read the labels of chemicals and cleaners carefully, and don’t mix products.
3. Secure rugs and railings, and cushion sharp edges if there are children or elderly in the house.
4. Keep tools in good working condition.
5. Make sure that all spray nozzles are directed away from you.
6. When cooking use grease shields on frying pans to protect from splattering.

Finally, remember that bystanders are also at risk for eye injuries. Have children wear protective eyewear or have them leave the area when rigorous chores are being done.

Taking proactive steps to prevent eye injuries is far better than dealing with the consequences. Let’s prioritize eye safety and keep our vision intact for a lifetime of healthy sight.