December is Safe Toys and Celebrations Month, which makes it the perfect time to review essential holiday eye safety tips to help protect your loved ones. The American Academy of Ophthalmology encourages families to choose toys carefully and avoid gifts that launch projectiles, such as BB guns and crossbows, which are responsible for many serious eye injuries every year.
Safe Toy Shopping: Eye Protection During the Holidays
When choosing gifts for children, taking a few extra moments to review safety guidelines can make a big difference. Here are helpful suggestions to keep your keiki safe:
• Read all warnings and instructions.
Before buying a toy, check the packaging for age recommendations and proper use instructions. This helps ensure the toy is appropriate for your child’s developmental stage.
• Look for the “ASTM” label.
ASTM certification means the toy meets safety standards created by the American Society for Testing and Materials. These standards exist to improve the safety and quality of consumer products.
• Choose toys designed with safety in mind.
Avoid toys with sharp edges, high-tension strings, or powerful projectiles. When in doubt, select safer, age-appropriate alternatives.
Safe Celebrations: Champagne & Party Tips
Holiday festivities often include champagne or bubbly drinks. To prevent eye injuries caused by flying corks, be sure to follow proper opening techniques. A cork can travel up to 50 mph and cause significant trauma if it strikes the eye.
When to Call an Eye Doctor
Even with care, accidents can happen. If anyone experiences an eye injury, contact us right away to schedule a comprehensive eye exam
Happy Holidays from our ‘ohana to yours!