Winter is here, and for some that means planning a snowy holiday, travelling to the mountains, and spending days skiing or snowboarding on the slopes. While the excitement of your trip is part of the fun, it is also the perfect time to think about safety eyewear. Protecting your eyes with the right goggles or visors is essential when travelling in snowy conditions. Choosing proper safety eyewear ensures you can enjoy your holiday without discomfort, reduce the chance of injury, and keep your vision safe while having fun on the slopes.
Common Hazards on the Slopes
When you’re on holiday in the mountains, your eyes can be exposed to a range of hazards. Collisions with other skiers or snowboarders, branches, or even fast-moving equipment can cause injuries, while bright sunlight reflecting off the snow can strain your eyes or cause temporary blindness. Cold winds and low humidity can leave your eyes feeling dry, sore, and tired, which can make it harder to stay focused on the slopes. Wearing the right safety eyewear, such as certified goggles or helmets with integrated visors, keeps your eyes protected and ready for a full day of winter sports.
Why Safety Eyewear Matters
Using proper safety eyewear is not just about comfort; it is about protecting your vision and enjoying your holiday safely. NHS data shows that hospital admissions for sports-related eye injuries rise during winter months, many of which are preventable. By wearing the right goggles or visor-equipped helmet, you can avoid painful injuries and long recovery times.
Tips for Safe Eyes on Your Winter Holiday
Here are some practical tips to keep your eyes protected while having fun on holiday:
- Choose goggles with 100 per cent UV protection and anti-fog lenses to maintain clear vision in all conditions.
- Make sure your helmet fits correctly and comfortably for long days on the slopes.
- Take regular breaks to rest your eyes and prevent fatigue.
- Keep spare lenses or goggles handy in case of damage or heavy snow.
- Know where to seek specialist care if an injury occurs.
Even small precautions, like wearing the right safety eyewear, can prevent a trip to A&E and help ensure your holiday is safe and enjoyable.
Make Safety Eyewear Part of Your Winter Kit
Think of safety eyewear as an essential part of your winter sports kit. Simple reminders, such as checking your goggles before the first lift or taking a break if your eyes feel sore, can make a huge difference. Investing in high-quality protective eyewear allows you to fully enjoy your winter holiday while staying safe and in control on the slopes.
References:
- Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). “Sports and leisure eye injuries.” 2023. RoSPA
- NHS Digital. “Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) – Eye injury data.” 2022. NHS
- Moorfields Eye Hospital. “Protecting your eyes while skiing and snowboarding.” 2023. Moorfields