Ensuring Optimal Eye Safety at Home

Good eye safety is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and preventing accidents that can lead to vision impairment. Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, your trusted eye doctor, believes that protecting your eyes begins in the comfort of your home. In this post, we’ll share how to keep your eyes safe while you’re relaxing in your comfort zone.

Protection From Ultraviolet (UV) Rays

Over-exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to severe conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. When out in the sun, make sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses, specifically those providing 100% UVA and UVB ray protection. Moreover, wearing wide-brimmed hats or caps can shield your eyes from direct sunlight.

Screen Time Safety

Today’s increasingly digital lifestyle has made it essential to safeguard your eyes from the strain caused by prolonged screen time, which could lead to headaches, blurred vision and dry eyes. Your eye doctor may recommend the 20-20-20 rule, which involves taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.

It’s also advisable to adjust the screen brightness to a comfortable level and place the monitor correctly at around 20-24 inches from your eyes and slightly below eye level to avoid straining your eyes. Optimize screen brightness, contrast and font size to reduce eye strain as well. A screen that is too bright or too dim can contribute to discomfort and potential long-term issues.

Safe Use of Household Chemicals

When using household cleaning supplies and other products with chemicals, make sure to read the product labels and heed directions and warnings. Protective goggles should be worn to prevent any splashback injury, and make it a habit to store these products out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidents.

Protection During Home Improvement Projects

Eye safety is essential when working on simple home improvement projects. DIY projects and repairs could expose your eyes to potential injuries from airborne particles or debris. Safety glasses with side shields or wrap-around lenses can ensure protection while carrying out such tasks. Ensure that these protective devices fit well and are in good condition, as ill-fitting or damaged eyewear may compromise their effectiveness. Secure the area by cleaning up hazardous materials and removing sharp objects when they’re not in use.

Preventative Measures for Eye Infections

Good hygiene can help prevent eye infections caused by bacteria, viruses or other contaminants. To maintain eye safety, frequently washing hands with soap and water is imperative. Avoid sharing personal items such as eye drops, makeup, pillows or face masks. Be sure to observe proper contact lens care, constantly cleaning and storing them according to manufacturer’s instructions. If you have an eye infection, consult an eye doctor, and don’t share or use another person’s medication.

Take Care of Your Eyes

Good eye safety at home involves a combination of proactive measures and a conscientious approach to daily activities. For unmatched eye care services in Redmond or Kirkland, WA, call Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic at (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood, WA) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell, WA), or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.