Exercise care uncorking bottles over the holidays

San Fransisco-Injuries from improperly opening bottles of sparkling wine are among the most common holiday-related hazards according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

"A bottle of champagne can be a wonderful holiday treat, but people need to be careful popping the cork," said Wayne Bizer, DO, a clinical correspondent for the academy. "Warm bottles of champagne and poor technique in removing the cork can result in serious, blinding eye injuries. Knowing the right way to open a bottle of champagne will make your holiday both merry and safe. We want people to ring in the New Year with good eye health."

Some techniques for opening champagne bottles include making sure the sparkling wine is chilled at least 45 degrees F before opening. Hold down the cork with the palm of your hand while removing the wire hood. Lastly keep the bottle at a 45-degree angle and hold firmly with one hand while using the other hand to slowly turn the cork with a slight upward pull.

For more information about eye safety and eye health, please visit www.GetEyeSmart.org.