Eyeglasses and Contact Lens Emergency Preparedness Guide

Calm preparedness scene illustrating vision care emergency kit

Protect vision during evacuations and water disruptions with spare glasses, safe lens hygiene, prescriptions, and accessible organization.

Make glasses the dependable backup

Keep a current spare pair of eyeglasses in a protective case in the emergency kit, even when contacts are normally preferred. Add the prescription, provider contact, repair kit, and any low-vision aids or charging equipment.

Pack lens supplies correctly

Carry unexpired lenses, fresh disinfecting solution, and clean cases. Never use tap water, bottled drinking water, saliva, or homemade saline to rinse or store contacts. Rewetting drops and saline do not disinfect lenses.

Remove lenses when unsafe

Avoid contacts when eyes are irritated, during smoke or chemical exposure, or when clean hands and proper supplies are unavailable. Remove lenses before sleep unless they are specifically prescribed for overnight wear.

Respond to contamination

For chemical or debris exposure, follow emergency instructions and begin appropriate flushing when advised. Remove contacts only if they come out easily. Persistent pain, redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or vision change needs prompt evaluation.

Make the kit accessible

Use tactile labels, large print, high contrast, or organized compartments as useful. Store lighting and a hand-hygiene option with supplies. Replace expired items during regular reviews.