"Octopus" elasticated straps are a common cause of severe accidental eye injuries, which we believe are largely preventable. In a retrospective study (January 1990 to August 1996), we identified 42 patients with such injuries severe enough to warrant admission to hospital. The injuries included hyphaema, vitreous haemorrhage, retinal detachment, and choroid and globe rupture, with 28% (12/42) of the injuries resulting in permanent visual loss. We believe octopus straps should not be available for sale in their current form.