Safety

Lighting

  • Plan to have all exterior entrances to your home well lit by placing sensor lights in appropriate places.

  • Always carry a small penlight/flashlight with you for unexpected lighting needs.

Posted on March 23, 2006

Make Your Home Safer
  • Clear away clutter.

  • Install grab bars in bathrooms near tub and shower.

  • Install non-skid mats in tubs and showers.

  • Install hand rails on both sides of steps.

  • Be certain all rooms are well lit by ceiling fixtures and lamps.

  • Install night lights to light the way for trips to the bathroom at night.

  • Keep flashlights in a special place for use in case of a power failure.

  • Install smoke alarms to detect smoke or fires.

  • Remove small area rugs to avoid tripping.

  • Tape electrical cords down or secure them behind furniture.

  • Wear rubber-soled shoes or sneaker for better traction.

  • Do not walk in house-slippers, stockings or socks.

Posted on June 17, 2005

Tape on Stairs

Place bright reflective tape along the edge of stairs to make each step easier to see.

Posted on June 1, 2005

What is UV?

The definition of ultraviolet, as it applies to optics, is light with wavelengths between about 250-400nm (invisible to the naked eye). Ultraviolet radiation is sometimes called “sunburn rays.” The sun produces many types of radiation. Some radiation is the light we need for seeing. There is also infrared radiation that is invisible but felt as heat. Ultraviolet radiation is also invisible.

Can UV radiation hurt our eyes?

More and more scientific evidence shows that long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can damage our eyes. With the thinning of the earth’s ozone layer and the growing popularity of outdoor activities, there is a strong possibility that UV-related eye disorders will increase within the next decade.

Ultraviolet radiation may contribute to the development of various eye disorders, such as macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss among older Americans, and cataracts, a major cause of visual impairment and blindness around the world.

Who is at risk?

Everyone (including children) is at risk for eye damage that can lead to vision loss from exposure to UV radiation. Any factor that increases your exposure to sunlight will increase your risk. People whose work or leisure activities involve lengthy exposure to sunlight are at the greatest risk.

With proper protection, 90 percent of sports and recreational injuries could be avoided.

Posted on May 31, 2005

Brimmed Caps / Hats

For the greatest protection, a wide-brimmed hat or cap will block roughly 50% of the UV radiation and reduce the UV radiation that may enter the eyes from above or around glasses.

Posted on May 31, 2005

Sunglasses

Ultraviolet-absorbing eyewear provides the greatest measure of UV protection. Wearing good sunglasses outside helps filter the light, reduces glare, and protects against damaging rays from the sun. Wraparound glasses provide additional protection. Exposure to the sun can create the risk of loss of sight. Constant exposure to bright sunlight can cause some damage to the cornea and the retina immediately and additional damage can occur over a lifetime of exposure.

Good quality sunglasses can reduce the risks of sun exposure and help to protect the eyes from harmful UV radiation. Experts believe that sunglasses should block 99 to 100% of UV rays. Examine labels carefully to ensure that the lenses absorb at least 99 to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B. Be wary of labels that claim “Provides UV Protection” without specifying exactly what percentage of UV rays the product blocks.

The Food and Drug Administration mandates that all lenses be impact resistant and made of optical-quality glass or plastic. Both of these are available with or without a prescription. This does not mean that the lenses are shatterproof or unbreakable; it only means that they can withstand moderate impact.

Posted on May 31, 2005

The Sun

Eye safety discussions should always begin with the dangers of exposure to the sun. Most people have become aware of the damage the sun can cause to their skin, yet, UV rays from the sun also pose great danger to their eyesight. You should never stare directly at the sun at any time, whether you are wearing eye protection or not. Contrary to popular belief, the sun is brighter in winter.

Posted on May 31, 2005