For many people, New Year’s Eve celebrations are never complete without popping open a bottle of champagne or decorating the skies with colorful fireworks. While these may as well be considered a tradition, they are a hazard to your eyes.
Read on as your low vision specialist shares how you can keep your eyes safe and healthy during the holidays.
Learn How to Properly Open a Champagne Bottle
First and foremost, make sure that you are not pointing the bottle toward yourself or to any other person. For champagne or anything bubbly, do not use a corkscrew. Most of these come standard with a muselet, also called a wire cage or wirehood, to open. As you hold the cork, put a towel over the top so that it could catch the cork upon opening. This prevents the cork from flying across the room and potentially hurting someone.
Light Fireworks or Firecrackers in a Far-Away, Open Space
While it would certainly be convenient to just light fireworks just outside your window, this could put you and your guests at risk for eye injuries. If you really want to light your own, make sure to do it in an open space that’s a few meters away from the people and your house. Better yet, your eye doctor suggests opting out of lighting these things this year and just enjoy the public fireworks display. Not only do you get to enjoy the beautiful fireworks display, this is safer for your eyes too.
Use Protective Eyewear
Whether you’re lighting fireworks, popping a champagne bottle, or simply opening streamer poppers, use safety goggles. These are often made of polycarbonate, which is engineered to resist high levels of pressure and impact. This ensures your eyes are protected all the time.
Visit Your Eye Care Specialist
Seeing your eye doctor for a checkup is always a good decision, no matter the event. We can examine your eyes and check for any problems or upgrade your contact lenses or eyeglasses. This way, blurry eyesight won’t get in the way for you to fully enjoy the holiday festivities.
For more tips on taking care of your eyes during the holidays, call us at (717) 609-4443 or fill out our form. We serve PA residents in Shippensburg, Greencastle and nearby Pennsylvania areas.