Optometrists in Rutherglen are urging DIY enthusiasts to take extra care to avoid eye injuries as home improvement projects prove popular during lockdown.
An estimated 200,000 eye injuries are caused by DIY mishaps every year and Specsavers opticians up and down the country have treated patients for an array of incidents in the last few weeks – from foreign objects to chemical burns.
Peter Beaton, store director at Specsavers Rutherglen said: ‘We often see a spike in these types of accidents in the springtime, so as lockdown DIY becomes popular it’s no surprise that we’re seeing a number of patients getting in touch with these types of injuries.
“It is important that you are cautious and pay close attention when you are carrying out any activity which might lead to something going into the eye, such as chopping firewood, pruning in the garden, drilling or grinding and that suitable eye protection is worn. In the event that an injury occurs, call your local Specsavers store where an optometrist will be able to discuss the best course of action with you.”
While Specsavers stores, in line with government guidelines, have suspended routine testing for the foreseeable future emergency and essential eye care is still available to those in need – including frontline staff and key workers.
Anyone requiring emergency advice should call their local optician.
Peter stresses prevention is better than cure and says suitable eye protection is the real solution.
For more information, call Specsavers Rutherglen on 0141 647 5588 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/rutherglen
