You (and your kids) love being active in the summer months, and it’s important that you make eye safety a top priority as you enjoy the great outdoors. Here, we’ll take a look at common eye injuries incurred by kids throughout June, July, and August.
Fireworks Injuries
You know that you shouldn’t hover over explosive devices, but for many people, this line of thought goes out the window when the excitement of fireworks comes into play. Fireworks-related eye injuries have been on the rise in recent years. The best option? View professional fireworks from afar rather than trying to set up your own display. If you’re committed to doing your own fireworks show this summer, take every precaution possible, including wearing appropriate protective eyewear and keeping more than a safe distance from explosives. Of course, kids should never be around an active fireworks display.
Sun Damage
You can’t use traditional sunscreen on your eyes, of course, but you can take steps to ensure that your eyes are protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can go a long way in protecting your eyes from sun damage. Your eyeballs aren’t the only thing you need to worry about — eyelids are a hot spot for skin cancer and are often missed with sunscreen.
Eye Infections
Swimming is great exercise, but it’s key that you provide your child with adequate eye protection, both in pools and in open water. Many kids experience eye irritation from chlorine getting into their eyes in a swimming pool. This often subsides soon after they’re out of the water. Open water swimming issues, however, can be a different story. Bacteria and other pathogens can cause painful eye infections that require medical treatment. If you notice that your child’s eyes are bothering them after swimming in open water, be sure to see your eye doctor as soon as possible.
Yardwork Injuries
If your kiddo wants to help out with the yard work (or just wants to be with you while you mow), that’s fabulous — but make sure they have proper eye protection. When the moving blades of a lawnmower hit a rock, it can fly anywhere, including into your child’s eyes. Be sure to outfit your little one (and yourself) with proper safety goggles prior to starting up the mower or the weed whacker.
