Eye Safety Tips for the Holidays

In December, NJSOP President Dr. Kimberly Friedman appeared on Philadelphia's Fox-29 News Program, "Good Day" to discuss eye safety during the holidays.

Toys such as darts, arrows and air-pumped ball or missile launchers, which involve flinging or projectile firing, are the main culprits in eye injuries, according to optometrist Kimberly Friedman, O.D. Paintball and high-pressure water guns also can cause injuries.

Well-intentioned relatives or friends might not realize a child is too young to safely handle scissors that come with an arts-and-crafts set.
"Well-intentioned relatives or friends might not realize a child is too young to safely handle scissors that come with an arts-and-crafts set, for example," Dr. Friedman said. "Sharp edges - and even something as benign as glitter when accidentally rubbed into they eye - can cause painful, damaging wounds or infections than can permanently affect a person's vision."

It may sound like common sense, but breakable ornaments can shatter and send small pieces flying.
"Every year we see patients with corneal abrasions caused by scrapes from tree branches," Dr. Friedman said. "Breakable ornaments can shatter and send small pieces flying. These might sound like common-sense warnings, but judging from the injuries we see this time every year, they're worth repeating."

For adults, Dr. Friedman advises extra caution when extinguishing candle flames, as the hot wax can splatter into the eyes, and while sitting near fires - indoors and outdoors - as hot pieces of wood can pop several feet and into eyes.

When outdoors, adults and children should wear protective eyewear, such as goggles or glasses when sledding, skiing, throwing or blowing snow, for example, Dr. Friedman said.

"Exercise common sense and above all, supervise youngsters while they play, especially with new toys they might not understand how to use properly or that might contain broken parts or sharp edges," Dr. Friedman said. "A little prevention can save a lot of pain and help ensure healthy vision for 2005."