It’s the gift-giving season and most everyone has a child on their shopping list. Parents, aunts, uncles and friends want to buy the perfect toy for their little ones but before they do, they need to do a little homework. Though toy manufacturers are getting better when it comes to creating safe toys, accidents are still on the rise. Injuries to the eye can be anything from a minor scratch, to burns from chemicals to more severe injuries that cause permanent damage. When choosing a toy, keep in mind the age and maturity level of the child and even whether there is a younger sibling in the house. Most all toys require age appropriate labeling so make sure you read the precautions on the packaging. And remember, there is no substitute for common sense. If you are not the parent, it might be a good idea to ask for tips and suggestions. Parents may have specific types of toys they don’t allow their children to have, like toy guns and weapons. With a little common sense and a watchful eye while your children are playing, most eye injuries can be avoided.
After the appropriate toy is purchased there are still a few things you can do at home to avoid an eye injury. Make sure you provide safety glasses, helmets and other proper gear for any riding toy or toy that emits a projection. Keep a watch on toys that have become broken, damaged or have loose parts, read all directions and instruct children on the proper use of the toy and make sure they wash hands after playing with toys that leave a chemical residue on hands.
Below is a list of the most common toys that cause eye injury:
- Guns are the number one cause for eye injury. Any toy that fires a projectile is cause for concern. Even guns that shoot plastic, rubber or sponge can cause damage when they make eye contact.
- Toy Weapons, wands, swords, knives and sabers are an obvious danger to eyes. Make sure if your child has toys like this, they use extreme safety measures like protective eyewear and supervise always!
- Laser Pointers are not really toys although many children might think so. Lasers can cause retinal damage and should never be pointed at the eye or even considered a toy.
- Party Foam can cause eye irritation, infection or pink eye due to the chemicals.
- Toy Fishing Poles may cause injury to playmates eyes if children are swinging the poles around and not using properly.
- Fireworks are the cause eye damage every year and should never be used by children without strict adult supervision.
- Water balloons that launch and water guns that shoot a stream, can cause serious eye damage when used at close range.
- Avoid buying toys with sharp points or edges.
Alpine Eye Care wishes you and your family a happy and safe holiday.
If you have recently relocated to Northern Michigan or are just in need of a new eye doctor or surgeon in Gaylord, Grayling, Cheboygan or the surrounding areas, Alpine Eye Care is here to help. Offering a variety of services for you and your entire family, Alpine Eye Care is the right choice for your eye care needs. Services offered by Alpine Eye Care include vision correction, senior eye care, cosmetic treatments and other procedures. To set up an appointment, call us directly at 989.732.6455 or at 877.SEE.2020 or contact us online here.