FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ms. Jackie Sandoval, Community Relations, 954-782-1700, jsandoval@randeye.com

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. -- In response to the rising number of hurricane related injuries over the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons, the Rand Eye Institute, a comprehensive eye care and surgical facility in Deerfield Beach, is assisting South Florida residents to anticipate and prepare for an increasing number of storm related eye injuries. Rand Eye Institute's "Hurricane Eye Safety Tips" can be found in select print advertisements throughout South Florida.

While a number of injuries are directly caused by the storm's landfall and deteriorating weather conditions, the majority of reported incidents are caused indirectly, occurring as a result of pre- and post-storm preparation and recovery efforts. Of these, 90 percent are avoidable. By taking steps laid out by Rand Eye Institute, before, during and after a storm, many of these potential hazards can be reduced and potentially prevented.

"Eye injuries have increased in past storms. Anticipating and preparing for risks that can potentially lead to an eye injury should be part of any emergency disaster plan," says William J. Rand, chief surgeon and medical director of the Rand Eye Institute.

Because flying fragments of metal, wood, concrete and other building materials, along with windblown dust and debris account for the highest number of eye injuries, one of the simplest ways to prevent eye injuries is to wear protective eye goggles or safety glasses, which should be included with other hurricane supplies. Wearing protective eyewear, even when putting up shutters, removing debris or working with both hand and power tools, can reduce the risk of injuring the eye.

The Rand Eye Institute also recommends:

• Avoid rubbing or touching irritated areas of the eye -- especially if you suspect the presence of debris particles or chemical solutions. Wash and rinse with clean, preferably bottled water
• Having essential medications, including preservative-free eye drops on hand
• Sterilizing contact lenses more frequently -- especially when dealing with unsanitary conditions
• Preparing a list of all physician emergency contact numbers, including your optometrist and ophthalmologist
• Seeking immediate medical attention if you experience a serious eye injury or problem Call 954-782-1700

With a compliment of Board Certified Ophthalmologists, who are on call to address your most immediate concerns, the Rand Eye Institute provides 24-hour emergency care, with an on-site, fully licensed and Joint Commission accredited ambulatory and surgical center, capable of treating a full-range of eye injuries.