Elisabeth S. Swan, O.D.

Spring is here and along with it plenty of garden activity. Did you know that garden-related accidents account for over one-fifth of all penetrating eye injuries?

We think of gardens as places of peace and beauty. But take a moment to think about the activities we perform to keep them that way. First, there are the power lawn mowers. Small stones and sticks can be picked up by the blades and thrown at high speed causing a devastating eye injury.

Lawn trimmers have a nylon cord which revolves at high speed and can send small pieces of nylon, bits of dirt and other hard debris flying, potentially causing lacerations or infections. Some can be severe enough to cause blindness.

Applying grass seed, weed killers, fertilizers, and other powders on a windy day can cause burns and irritation to the eyes when these products become airborne. And if you work around bushes and plants, your face is likely to brush against branches and vegetation that can scratch the eye.

We don’t want to discourage you from the pleasure of tending your garden. But we encourage you to make a habit of wearing safety goggles when you do, especially for these risky activities.

Here are a few guidelines for keeping your eyes safe while working in the garden:

1. Wear dark grey sunglasses to cut out cataract-causing radiation
2. Wear protective safety goggles made of polycarbonate, available at hardware stores
3. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to reduce ultraviolet radiation
4. Don’t depend on ordinary glasses for full safety protection

Keep your eyes safe so you can use them to admire your beautiful garden.

According to eyewear forecasters, the final word in fashion this year is glamour.

You can expect to see glitzy shapes such as angular and oversized frames with sassy decorations. Cutout shapes, jewels, and even lace will make an appearance. You’ll be able to choose a lens color that matches a frame or go for mirrored or tinted treatments.

Influences from the natural world include the look of bamboo, wood, horn and even leather.

And don’t forget that wearing your sunglasses whenever you go outdoors is always in fashion!

Come by and see the new fashions in eyewear at Family Vision Clinic. Mention you saw this article and receive 30% off your next purchase!

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