If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you might opt to handle a bathroom upgrade or kitchen renovation on your own. However, tools and construction materials can be dangerous, which is why you must wear protective gear. In particular, your eyes may be vulnerable to toxic chemicals, sawdust, and flying debris, so promote vision care by following these tips.

Vision Care Tips for DIY Projects

1. Turn Your Face Away From Debris

While woodworking, try to anticipate the direction in which debris will likely fly. Then, orient yourself so you can turn your face away from the trajectory of airborne sawdust and projectiles. If the project requires driving heavy machinery on your lawn, clear the area of yard equipment and trees so you don’t send these items flying.

2. Wear Glasses or Goggles

In addition to being lightweight and comfortable, polycarbonate glasses are shatter-proof, meaning they won’t cause glass shards to fly into your eyes upon impact. They provide effective protective barriers against projectiles that may become airborne during sawing and chipping.

Goggles are also helpful, as they fit snugly on the face. They prevent fumes from paint, adhesives, and cleaning chemicals from entering your eyes, causing burning and compromising your vision.

3. Use a Face Shield

In addition to glasses or goggles, wear a face shield that acts as an extra layer of eye protection. These shields, made from durable acetate or polycarbonate, also protect the nose, mouth, and other parts of the face from chemical splashes and projectiles.

4. Know First Aid

If chemicals fly into your eyes while working on home improvements, flush them with water for about 15 to 30 minutes to neutralize acids. If a foreign body enters the eye, cover it by taping a paper cup to your eye to prevent anything from touching and worsening it as you seek emergency medical attention.

Prioritize vision care year-round with eye exams from The Whitefish Eye Center. They provide diagnosis, treatment, and laser eye surgery to clients throughout Flathead County, MT. Call (406) 862-2020 to book an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about treatment options for common eye infections and diseases.