When we think of eye injuries, it’s easy to imagine building sites or factories. But the reality is that nearly half of all eye injuries actually happen at home while gardening, cleaning, cooking, doing DIY, or even playing with pets. Sports and recreational activities account for many more.

With around 2.5 million eye injuries every year (and 90% of them preventable with protective eyewear), knowing what to do in the first moments after an injury can make all the difference to protecting your vision.

In honour of Eye Injury Prevention Month, here are some of the most common types of eye injuries and the first aid steps you should take.

Scratched Eye (Corneal Abrasion)

Symptoms may include:

• Eye pain

• Feeling like something is stuck in the eye

• Tearing or watery eye

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision or headache (if the cornea is scratched)

First Aid Steps:

• Rinse your eye with clean water or sterile saline.

• Blink several times or gently pull your upper eyelid over the lower lid to help dislodge debris.

• Do not rub your eye, touch it with fingers, or wear contact lenses while it heals.

• Wear sunglasses if your eyes feel sensitive to light.

• Always seek medical advice — even small scratches can cause infection or scarring if left untreated.

Sand or Small Particles in the Eye

Sand, dust, and dirt are often flushed out naturally by blinking and tears. But sometimes they need extra help.

First Aid Steps:

• Blink several times to encourage natural tears.

• Lift your upper eyelid over your lower lashes to try and brush the particle away.

• Rinse thoroughly with eyewash, saline, or running clean water.

• Avoid rubbing your eye.

• If discomfort continues, or if the object is man-made (like metal or glass), seek medical attention immediately.

Blunt Injury to the Eye (Black Eye or Impact)

Even a light blow to the eye can cause serious injuries, such as a retinal detachment.

First Aid Steps:

• Gently apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.

• Do not use food items (like steaks) as compresses, these can introduce bacteria.

• Avoid putting pressure on the eye.

• If you develop a black eye, visual changes, or ongoing pain, contact your ophthalmologist or go to the emergency room.

Chemical Splash or Burn

Chemical injuries can be extremely serious and require immediate action.

First Aid Steps:

• Immediately flush the eye with clean, lukewarm water.

• Hold your eyelids open while rinsing.

• Try to identify the chemical involved to better inform medical staff.

• Seek emergency medical help right away.

Protecting Your Eyes

The good news is that most eye injuries are preventable. A few simple precautions can make all the difference:

• Wear safety glasses or goggles during DIY, gardening, or sports.

• Use UV-protective sunglasses outdoors to protect against sun damage.

• Keep clean eyewash or sterile saline in your first aid kit at home and at work