In the case of poison in the eye, what should you do?

In the event of poison in the eye, it is crucial to act quickly and effectively to minimize damage and discomfort. The most effective immediate response is to wash the eye quickly for a sufficient duration, which is typically around 15 minutes, with running water. This method helps to dilute and flush out the toxic substance, reducing the likelihood of injury to the eye and alleviating potential irritation.

Flushing the eye with water works by physically removing the poison and helping to prevent it from being absorbed into the tissues of the eye. The recommendation for a continuous flush for 15 minutes ensures that there is enough time for the water to reach all parts of the eye and adequately wash out the irritant.

The other options do not provide the same level of immediate care needed in such a scenario. Keeping the eye closed or covering it with a cloth can result in the poison remaining in contact with the sensitive tissues of the eye, leading to further damage. Wearing goggles might provide protection in other situations, but they are not appropriate for flushing out a chemical contaminant. Hence, washing the eye with running water is the best immediate action to take.