The holiday season is a time for celebrating with family and friends, but it's also a time when eye injuries can occur. According to the American Optometric Association, over 200,000 children under the age of 18 receive treatment for eye injuries every year in the United States. To help prevent eye injuries during the holiday season, here are the top five things to consider:
Decorations: Tinsel and other decorations can be tempting for children to play with, but they can also be dangerous if they get into the eyes. It's important to keep decorations out of reach of young children, or to use safer alternatives such as artificial trees and LED lights.
Gifts: Many children's toys, especially those that shoot objects or have sharp edges, can cause eye injuries. Before giving a child a new toy, make sure it's age-appropriate and has no small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Fireworks: Fireworks are a common part of holiday celebrations, but they can also be dangerous. To prevent eye injuries from fireworks, it's important to only use them in designated areas and to follow the instructions on the packaging.
Sports: Winter sports, such as ice skating and sledding, can be fun, but they can also be a source of eye injuries. To prevent sports-related eye injuries, make sure children wear protective gear, such as helmets and goggles, when participating in these activities.
Food: The holiday season is a time for indulging in delicious food, but it's important to be careful around the kitchen. Hot oil and other cooking ingredients can splatter and cause eye injuries, so it's important to keep children away from the stove and to use caution when cooking.
By keeping these five things in mind, you can help ensure that your holiday season is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
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