Text size A - A+

Protecting Your Child's Sight

firstaidDespite all the things you do to keep your children safe – at home, on the playground, and in the car – accidents happen. Each year, thousands of children visit A & E and doctors’ offices with eye injuries.

What Causes Most Children’s Eye Injuries?

Most eye injuries come from a handful of causes. Toys that are used inappropriately; falling into or off of a piece of furniture; using tools and other objects incorrectly like running with scissors; aerosols and chemicals; and car accidents when children are not in safety seats.

How Can You Teach Eye Safety Behaviour to Your Children?

Children learn through imitation. Help your child learn healthy habits by demonstrating the right behaviour for safe play and work:

  • Wear safety goggles when you work with chemicals and other hazardous materials.

  • Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your eyes on bright, sunny days, or when snow or ice gleam in the sunlight.

  • Use goggles when you play sports like racquetball, basketball, tennis, and soccer and insist your child do the same.

  • Wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes and nose to inhibit the spread of colds and other viruses.