Accidents happen. In fact, accidents involving common household products cause 125,000 eye injuries each year. When an accident occurs, it’s important to be prepared so you can react quickly and safely. To help protect your eyes in the event of an accident, we’ve compiled some basic first aid tips for different types of eye injuries.
Chemical Exposure
- Rinse the eye with a continuous stream of cool water for 10 minutes
- If you’re wearing contact lenses, do not try to remove them until you have washed your eye
- If your contacts are still in after rinsing your eyes with water, try to remove them
- Do not rub eyes
Foreign Object
- Do not rub the eye
- Blink several times to allow the tears to naturally flush out the particle
- Gently lift the upper eyelid over the lashes of your lower lid to try to let the eyelashes brush out the particle
- Flush the eye with saline solution or water
Blow to the Eye
- Apply a cold compress in 5 to 10 minute intervals without putting pressure on the eye
- After 24 hours, switch to warm compresses to help minimize bruising
- If you have reduced vision, persistent pain or drainage from the injured eye, seek medical treatment right away
Cuts or Punctures
Keeping these first aid tips in mind will help you stay calm and know how to react in the event of a household accident.
About the Author
Emily Shrader
Marketing Manager
Emily started at VBA as the Marketing Assistant in January 2016. She worked to create and maintain VBA’s blog, regulate all social media channels, and develop our e-mail marketing campaigns. Prior to joining our team, she was the Marketing and Social Media Coordinator for The Catholic Cemeteries Association. Emily received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the Pennsylvania State University in 2013.
In December 2017, Emily began her role as Marketing Manager. Her main responsibilities include day-to-day relationship management and project management of our strategic marketing initiatives, assisting in planning and implementing marketing objectives and continuing to develop needed marketing materials and branded collateral pieces.
Emily was born and raised in Pittsburgh and currently resides in McCandless Township. She enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family and, of course, cheering on the Nittany Lions.
