You might think of summertime as coming with a more obvious chance of incurring eye injuries, but the truth is that winter comes with a significant set of eye safety risks as well. How can you enjoy wintertime fun without hazard to your vision?
Sports Protection
During the winter, there is much fun to be had, whether you are a snow sport enthusiast, or opt for beach sports in a warmer climate. Either way, be sure to purchase and wear the appropriate eye safety gear, such as goggles for skiing, swimming or snowmobiling, protective eyewear for football and volleyball, or safety glasses for any sport that involves flying projectiles.
Sunglasses
While it may seem counter-intuitive to worry about the sun during the winter, the fact is that damaging UV rays are still present this time of year, plus snow and water are highly reflective and multiply the effects of those rays. Be sure to wear sunglasses that are rated as UV blocking for the best protection possible, and have them on anytime you are outside during daylight. Doing this will help protect you against future problems like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, plus prevent a very painful condition called Photokeratitis, which is basically a sunburn of the eye.
Be Aware
Winter is a great time to enjoy activities with family and friends. No matter what sports or pastimes you enjoy, it is so important to pay attention to your surroundings. A brief moment where you are distracted and not completely engaged in what is occurring around you can mean an eye safety tragedy, or worse. Accidents happen in less than the blink of an eye and can leave you visually impaired for life. This risk increases when you are involved in winter sports so stay alert.
Get out this winter and enjoy time with loved ones doing the things you enjoy. Use some caution and add some eye safety protection to your fun so that it can continue for many more years to come.
