Learn ‘Hidden Dangers’ To Special Needs Individuals

BRICK– Families, guardians, parents, and professionals who interact with children and adults with autism, developmental challenges, and special needs can discover effective safety steps at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch, 6:30 p.m. March 20.

Brick Township-based POAC’s “Hidden Dangers” program will offer potentially-lifesaving information and recommendations for a wide range of special needs and independence levels, including:

• Wandering – how to address it, and use of high-tech tracking devices

• Home and classroom modifications

• Emergency and disaster preparedness and fire safety practices

• Personal safety regarding sexuality, the Internet, and bullying

• Behavioral interventions such as social stories, visual cues, activity schedules

• School and transportation matters

• Ongoing support and assistance resources

“Hidden Dangers” is supported in full by funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the New Jersey State Library (NJSL) under Award Number LS-252474-OLS-22.

The New Jersey State Library, an affiliate of Thomas Edison State University (TESU), connects people with information and resources through its service to libraries, government, TESU students and staff, and New Jersey residents.

NJSL provides support for public, school, academic, and special libraries, including key areas of continuing need such as literacy, business outreach, workforce development, disaster preparedness and technology. For more information, visit njstatelib.org. Register at theoceancountylibrary.org/ events to attend this free program. The Brick Branch is located at 301 Chambers Bridge Road. For more details, call 732477- 4513.

Get Ready For Some Pickleball

BRICK – Are you looking forward to another spring and summer of pickleball?

Get ready for the season at Recreation’s Pickleball Round Robin on March 15 at the Civic Plaza from 4:30 to 6 p.m. This event is for people ages 18 and over who have experience playing the game. Players will be matched up with other ‘picklers’ for a fun evening. Fee is $20 per player. Register on Community Pass.

Craft & Vendor Fair

BRICK – Pioneer Hose Co. 1 Firehouse Ladies Aux. presents a Craft & Vendor Fair on March 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 312 Drum Point Road, Brick. Support your local firehouse! Enjoy 35+ local vendors!

Your Eyes Can Recover From Sun Damage

Most people probably don’t think about their eyes getting sunburned. We wear sunglasses to protect them from long-term damage, but the fact is our eyes can become sunburned after even a short period in sunlight (or any exposure to UV light, such as a tanning bed). This painful condition, called photokeratitis, can cause watery, bloodshot eyes that feel gritty, as if they have sand or some other small material in them. They are also vulnerable to bright lights. Luckily, photokeratitis usually lasts only a few days because our eyes are quite resilient and able to heal from most sun damage. Repeated sunburns, however, can lead to problems including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

While sunglasses are a good idea when it comes to eye protection, not all sunglasses are created equal. Choose sunglasses that limit transmission to no more than 1 percent UVB and 1 percent UVA rays. According to eye experts more is better when it comes to protecting your eyes from the sun. If you’re planning to be out in the sun, protect your eyes with a combination of quality sunglasses, UV-blocking contact lenses and a wide-brimmed hat. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week.

P.S. Those who are more likely to develop pterygia, such as surfers, farmers, and welders, can reduce their risk by consistently wearing proper eye protection.