Most chemicals just cause temporary stinging and irritation (for example, alcohol or hydrocarbons such as those in hairsprays are safe). However, acids and alkalis splashed into the eye can severely damage the cornea (clear part of the eye). All should be treated as emergencies until your health care provider or a Poison Control Center expert tells you otherwise.
Immediate and thorough flooding of the eye with tap water is needed to prevent damage to the cornea. Do this as quickly as possible. Either hold your child's face up under a gently running water tap or have your child lie down and continuously pour lukewarm water into the eye from a pitcher or glass. It is very important to hold the eyelids open during this process. For most chemicals, the eye should be flushed for 5 minutes. However, it should be flushed for 10 minutes for acids and 20 minutes for alkalis. Call your child's provider IMMEDIATELY after flushing the eye with water.
* Always use water. Do not use antidotes such as vinegar.
