BY FIRE CHIEF SAM DIGIOVANNA
Our sight is something many of us take for granted. Imagine not having it?
Let’s look at some facts on eye injuries. More than 40 percent of eye injuries are caused by projects and activities such as home repairs, yard work, cleaning and cooking. More than a third (34.2 percent) of injuries in the home occurred in living areas such as the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living or family room.
“Eyes can be damaged by sun exposure, not just chemicals, dust or objects. Among all eye injuries reported more than 78 percent of people were not wearing eyewear at the time of injury,” reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.
Protecting our eyes from injury is one of the most basic things you can do to keep your vision healthy throughout your life. Many household work activities from gardening, cleaning projects, working on cars, sports or small construction projects can cause eye injuries. You may be aware of the possible risks of eye injuries, but are you taking the necessary safety precautions to prevent eye injuries?
If you have suffered an eye injury, review these care and treatment recommendations. But most importantly, have an ophthalmologist or other medical doctor examine the eye as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor.
July is National Eye Injury prevention Month. Let’s keep an eye on safety and start being more aware of the dangers and wearing protective eyewear when necessary!
