Tackling your own home improvement projects can save you money and create an outlet for creativity. However, it’s essential to follow the proper safety measures, whether you’re staining a deck or building a new storage shed. Over 2 million eye injuries occur in the US each year, but many people forget to protect the vital organs. Save yourself a trip to the eye doctor by taking the following precautions.

How to Safeguard Your Eyes During Home Improvement Projects

1. Wear Safety Goggles

Many home improvement projects require dangerous power tools and materials. For example, if you're drilling into a piece of wood, chips and splinters can fly into the air and hurt your eyes if they’re unprotected.

Wear a pair of polycarbonate goggles for excellent protection, no matter the home improvement task. They’re lightweight, shatter-resistant, and heat-resistant. Make sure they’re flush against your face so that debris can’t find a way in. If you're working with metal, wear a face shield for more extensive protection against sparks and shards.

2. Be Careful With Chemicals

Chemicals in household products cause around 125,000 eye injuries each year. Follow manufacturer's guidelines for using products such as bleach and paint.

In addition to wearing safety goggles, you should wash your hands thoroughly before and after using the product. People touch their faces over 16 times an hour; keeping your hands clean will prevent any substances from accidentally getting into your eyes and mouth. Also, keep chemical containers sealed to prevent them from tipping over and causing dangerous splashes.

3. Prepare for an Emergency

Ease any apprehensions about your next project by learning more about first-aid practices. Typically, eye injuries involve a foreign body in the eye. If a solid object penetrates your eye, cover it with a plastic cup or another hard item to prevent disturbing it further, and seek medical care. Attempting to remove it yourself can cause more harm. 

Chemicals and other liquids can sometimes be flushed out with water. Place the affected eye under running water for 20 minutes. This can minimize the discomfort and minimize damage. Even if you believe the chemical in question is only a mild irritant, you should seek emergency help if you experience pain or vision loss. If you’re unsure if your situation warrants a visit to the ER, contact your eye doctor for guidance.

Protect your vision with regular visits to Tri-State Eye. Customers throughout Middletown, NY, and Milford, PA, rely on their experienced eye doctors for comprehensive care. Whether you're experiencing eye loss or need a routine eye exam, their team has you covered. They use the latest technology and techniques to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction. For an appointment at the Middletown office, call (845) 703-2020. For the Milford office, call (570) 296-9696. Learn more about their services online.