October is Eye Injury Prevention Month: Protect Your Vision Today

October is Eye Injury Prevention Month: Protect Your Vision Today

When most people think about eye health, they picture routine eye exams or updating their glasses prescription. But did you know that thousands of eye injuries occur every day in the U.S.—and nearly 90% of them are preventable? That’s why October is recognized as Eye Injury Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and remind everyone how vital it is to protect our vision.

At Rochester Optical, we believe prevention is just as important as correction. Here’s what you should know.

Common Causes of Eye Injuries

Work Eye Inquiries

Eye injuries don’t just happen in hazardous jobs—they can occur almost anywhere. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Workplace hazards: Flying debris, dust, chemicals, or projectiles in industrial or construction environments.

  • Home projects: DIY repairs, lawn care, or even cleaning products can pose risks.

  • Sports & recreation: Basketball, baseball, racquet sports, and even swimming are leading causes of eye trauma.

  • Digital strain: While not an acute “injury,” extended screen use can fatigue eyes and increase long-term risks.

Why Prevention Matters

Eye injuries can lead to serious consequences, from temporary discomfort to permanent vision loss. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology:

  • 2,000+ eye injuries occur daily in workplaces across the U.S.

  • Protective eyewear can prevent up to 90% of these cases.

  • Sports injuries are the leading cause of vision loss in children.

The good news? Most accidents are preventable with the right eyewear and precautions.

How to Protect Your Eyes

At Work

  • Always wear OSHA-approved safety glasses or goggles when exposed to dust, chemicals, or flying particles.

  • For specialized industries, prescription safety eyewear ensures both clarity and protection.

At Home

  • Use protective eyewear for any DIY projects, even seemingly small ones like trimming the lawn or hammering nails.

  • Store chemicals properly and keep them away from children.

In Sports

  • Choose sports goggles or shatter-resistant glasses for both kids and adults.

  • For outdoor athletes, consider prescription sunglasses that combine UV protection with impact resistance.

Daily Life

  • Don’t forget digital eye safety—blue-light filtering lenses can help reduce strain and fatigue during long hours on screens.

How Rochester Optical Can Help

Safety Glasses

This October, take a moment to prioritize your eye safety. At Rochester Optical, we offer:

  • Prescription safety glasses for work and industry.

  • Protective sports eyewear for kids and adults.

  • Designer frames with advanced lens options (blue light, photochromic, progressive, etc.).

  • Expert advice on choosing the right protection for your lifestyle.

Final Thought

Your eyes are irreplaceable. Eye Injury Prevention Month is the perfect reminder that protecting them is just as important as seeing clearly through them. Whether you’re at work, at home, or on the court, the right eyewear makes all the difference.

👉 Schedule your exam today or visit us in-store to explore safety and designer eyewear options. https://rochesteropticaloptometry.com/pages/schedule-vist

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