We
wanted to share some tips for buying “eye safe” toys as you make your list for
this holiday season. Certainly the kids and the toy manufacturers know what is
popular, but often they are unaware of potential safety issues-especially eye
safety issues. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are
typically more than 250,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency
rooms in annually with more than 75% affecting children under 15 years of age.
A serious eye injury from a toy can ruin a family's holiday and, more seriously
leave a child with permanent vision loss.
Top
Five Tips for Choosing Eye Safe Toys
1. Avoid purchasing toys with
sharp, protruding or projectile parts.
2. Make sure children have
appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games
that could cause injury.
3. If you plan to give sports
equipment, provide appropriate protective eyewear with polycarbonate
lenses. Check with your eye doctor to learn about protective eyewear
recommended for your child's sport.
4. Check labels for age
recommendations and be sure to select gifts that are appropriate for a child's
age and maturity.
5. Keep toys that are made for
older children away from younger children.
We
wish you a happy holiday season. If you need help with guidance on toys or
protective eyewear for children, please call Alabama Eye & Cataract Center in
Birmingham at 205-930-0930, visit Alabama Eye &
Cataract Center,
Google+ or www.facebook.com/alabamaeyeandcataractcenter.
