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According to the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness, there are more than two and a half million eye injuries in the United States each year. The identification and treatment of three different emergency injuries to eyes are described in detail, and illustrated with color photographs. Evaluation of eye injuries is discussed in detail, including examination of vision, the lid and area around the eye, the front of the eye, the pupils, the back of the eye (using an ophthalmoscope to light the interior, after pupil dilation), and pressure inside the eye. X-ray and ultrasonographic imaging of the eye are also described. The three types of emergencies discussed are chemical burn (often the result of work-related injuries), ruptured globe (corneal laceration) and bleeding into the front part of the eye (hyphema), usually caused by a blow with a blunt object. Children and the elderly often suffer eye injuries, but young men in their teens and twenties are the most likely to be injured. Although children had the smallest proportion of injuries, their injuries tended to the most severe. Eye injuries can frequently be prevented by using appropriate eye protection for work, home and sports activities. Eye care specialists should educate their patients on how to avoid dangerous situations and to protect their eyes. Polycarbonate lenses and frames provide the best protection at home, industrial goggles with side shields are best at certain worksites, and helmets with face masks are useful in sports. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)