Summertime is the perfect season to get outside doing your favorite activities in the sun! From making a splash in the pool or ocean to playing sports, camping and more, consider these seven eye safety tips for outdoor activities. Your eyes are key to enjoying the beauty of summer!
Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
One of the most important eye safety tips for outdoor activities is to wear 100% UVA and UVB protective sunglasses. When choosing sunglasses, look for labels that guarantee UV protection. Opt for large frames that block more sunlight for extra protection around the eyes.
Wearing UV protection sunglasses is important because prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can increase the risk of developing certain eye conditions. And remember, the UV rays aren’t just here for summer—they stick around year-round.
Put on a hat for extra sun protection.
In addition to your UV-protective sunglasses, consider wearing a hat for an added layer of protection from the sun. A hat with a wide brim can help shield your eyes from direct sunlight and reduce the amount of UV rays on your face.
Stay hydrated.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, camping or swimming, staying hydrated is crucial for both the health of your body and eyes. With hot, dry and windy conditions, your eyes can become dry, leading to discomfort. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
And try using lubricating eyedrops if you are prone to dry eyes.
Use protective eyewear during sports.
To prevent eye injuries from debris, collisions or more, use protective eyewear when participating in sports. For convenience when playing, sports goggles or wraparound safety glasses are made from shatterproof materials and can help prevent injuries.
Wear goggles during water activities.
Activities such as swimming, surfing and other water sports are a great way to cool off in the summer. But it can expose your eyes to harmful elements like chlorine, saltwater and bacteria. Protect your eyes from irritation and infection by wearing goggles when participating in any water activities.
If you wear contact lenses, avoid wearing them while in the water, if possible, as they can trap bacteria against your eye, increasing the risk of infection. Otherwise, tight-fitting goggles are recommended to reduce exposure to water.
Be mindful of allergens.
Summer may bring sunshine, cool breezes and flowering plants, so be mindful of the allergens that come with it as well. To reduce the risk of irritation from pollen, dust, and insects, consider wearing wraparound sunglasses. These sunglasses serve as a barrier, preventing particles from entering your eyes.
If you feel like you have gotten something in your eye, rinse with a saline solution to remove any debris.
Beware of reflective surfaces.
If you are spending your time near the water, sand, playground or other reflective surfaces, beware of the sun’s UV rays bouncing off them. Wear your UV-protective sunglasses and consider polarized lenses to help further reduce glare.
Summary
Before running outdoors to enjoy the sun this summer, let these eye safety tips for outdoor activities prepare you for the conditions! Do you need a new pair of sunglasses or an updated prescription? Visit your local Mississippi Eye Care clinic for all your vision needs.
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