Tips to Ensure Eye Safety while Purchasing Toys

Toy-related injuries are a serious cause of concern among parents of small children. According to authorities at the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 250,000 toy-related injuries are reported every year across the country.  Of the total incidents, majority of the injuries are reported among small children aged below 15 years.

Highlighting this point, American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) warns parents and caretakers about the hidden risks posed by some toys like airsoft guns, paintball or BB guns and darts to children. In their view, these toys can lead to serious eye injuries like corneal abrasion or can even lead to vision loss.

Following are some tips from AAO to ensure children's eye safety:

* Never buy a toy with sharp edges or parts

* Always monitor children while playing with dangerous type of toys or games to avoid eye injury

* Children who engage more in sports activities should be provided with protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses. Consult an eye doctor and seek his/her advice about the type of protective eyewear for each sport

* The toy should be age-appropriate

* Keep older children's toys away from younger one's reach

* Keep chemicals and sprays out of reach of small children

* Teach children how to use paper clips, pencils, scissors, bungee cords or rubber bands, safely

* Buy toys that have the safety mark "ASTM." That means materials used to manufacture the toy has been approved by American Society

Following recommendations from AAO should be taken into consideration, when a child gets an eye injury:

* Avoid touching or rubbing the injured eye

* Never try to take out objects stuck in the eye

* Avoid applying ointment or medication

* For chemical exposure, wash eyes with lots of water

* Consult an Eye M.D. or ophthalmologist