Here are some tips on opening a bottle of champagne properly:

• Make sure sparkling wine is chilled to at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit before opening. The cork of a warm bottle is more likely to pop unexpectedly.
• Don’t shake the bottle. Shaking increases your chances of eye injury.
• To open the bottle safely, hold down the cork with the palm of your hand while removing the wire hood. Point the bottle at a 45-degree angle away from yourself and from any bystanders.
• Place a towel over the entire top of the bottle and grasp the cork.
• Keep the bottle at a 45-degree angle as you slowly and firmly twist the bottle while holding the cork to break the seal. Continue to hold the cork while twisting the bottle. Continue until the cork is almost out of the neck. Counter the force of the cork using slight downward pressure just as the cork breaks free from the bottle.
• Never use a corkscrew to open a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine.

Safe Toys for the Holidays 

Many eye injuries happen to children around the holidays due to unsafe use of toys. The vast majority of these injuries can be prevented. Avoid purchasing toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts, including innocent-appearing toys such as a popgun or a paddleball set. Children should have appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games.

Consumers also need to remember that sports equipment, a popular gift, should also include protective eyewear. Sports-related eye injuries can cause permanent vision loss and account for about 40,000 eye injuries annually. If you plan to give sports equipment, provide appropriate protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses. Be sure to check with your Eye M.D. to learn about the protective gear recommended for your child's sport.