One accident can cause permanent brain damage in an instant, but there are ways to prevent brain injury. From concussion to aneurysm, here are some tips to avoid brain injury.
Wear a Helmet
Always be sure that you and your children wear a well-fitting helmet while participating in the following activities:
- Biking, motorcycling, riding an ATV
- Roller blading, skate boarding, scooters
- Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling
- Horseback riding, white water rafting or white water kayaking
- Playing contact sports such as boxing, wrestling, ice hockey, or football
- When batting or running bases in baseball or softball
- Any fast-paced activity that could cause head injury
- Headgear is also recommended for bull riding, martial arts, soccer and pole vaulting.
Be sure your helmet fits securely. Check the strap – it should be tight. Be sure the fitting is snug all the way around your head. Replace old helmets, and buy helmets new. Buying used is dangerous – if a helmet has been in an accident, it should be discarded. Even if you don’t see cracks or breaks, there could be damage to the support system.
Swim Safely
- Follow the rules and warnings at pools, beaches and water parks
- Do not dive into water less than 12 feet deep
- Don’t dive into above-ground pools
Safe Sportsmanship
- Do not participate in sports or athletic activities if you aren’t feeling well or are tired
- Wear appropriate gear and be sure it’s in good repair
- Don’t wear clothing that can interfere with your vision
- Obey traffic signals when biking, skating or jogging
- Avoid uneven pavements and sidewalks
- Never slide into base head-first when playing baseball or softball.
Overall
- In cars, always wear a seatbelt and be sure that children are strapped securely in car seats and booster seat
- Be sure you follow the guidelines regarding your child’s age and weight for position of car seat and whether or not your child is ready for a booster
- Never operate a vehicle when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Never ride as a passenger with anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Keep firearms locked in a secure cabinet with ammunition stored in a separate, secure location
- Check your house – is it hazard free? Be sure your rugs are secure. Install and use handrails or skid-proof carpet on your stairs. Use safety gates near stairs, swimming pools, and balconies. Install window guards
Above all, if you or someone you know has any kind of injury to the head, have a medical professional check for concussion or brain injury so that they can begin treatment as soon as possible. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
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