Injuries are the leading cause of disabilities for people ages 1-44, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Every June, the National Safety Council celebrates National Safety Month. During this month, we focus on ways you can stay safe at work, school, on a vacation or just out on a normal day doing errands, medication abuse assistance, preventing slips and falls and first aid and emergency preparedness.

No matter your age, you can be an important part of preventing injuries and educating others to do the same.

Prevent falls:

1 in 4 adults, ages 65+ will fall this year, but these can be fully prevented by taking precautionary measures at home:

• Make sure your railings are intact for use on stairwells
• Install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower and near the toilet if needed
• Use bright lights throughout your home, especially on the stairs, and particularly at night when stairs may be hard to see
• Keep stairs and places where you walk clear of clutter
• Put non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower

Be visible on the road:
Taking walks or bike rides on breezy summer nights are enjoyable and can be a great form of exercise, but if you’re not dressed appropriately, a simple walk could become dangerous. Be sure to always dress is bright colors or wear a reflective vest, walk on the sidewalk instead of the road (if you’re forced to walk in the street, walk/ride against traffic), and try to go with a friend versus alone.

Prevent musculoskeletal disorders:

Get moving so your muscles and joints like you and don’t ache!

Invest in well-designed and efficient desk items to limit your sitting in place all day if you have a desk job, which will maximize not only your work ability but your long-term mobility. For example, try sitting on a yoga ball instead of a chair, give a standing desk a shot or walk around the block during lunch.

Use medicines safely:

While medication can help you feel better, it’s important to always follow the directions on the label to not overuse, or improperly use the medicine. And be sure to always ask your pharmacist or doctor questions if you’re unsure about the proper dosage or conflicting medications. Lastly, be sure to keep your medicines out of reach of kids, as this could pose a deadly issue if little hands get into your medicine. If kids do ingest harmful medications, always be sure to have the poison control number within reach: 1-800-222-1222.

Stay hydrated:

Drink, drink, drink. On those hot and humid days, be sure you chug at LEAST eight 8-ounce glasses of water plus more if you’re out in the sun all day and/or are playing sports or working out outside. Be sure to also wear light clothing to stay drier and don’t go out hungry because being dehydrated and hungry is a not a good combination. 

Wear helmets and safety gear:

Helmets may not be the most fashionable thing on the market, however they can save your life and are a vital part of outdoor activities such as biking and skateboarding. Additionally, if you’re new to skateboarding or roller blading, be sure to gear up with extra protection like elbow and knee pads.

 You can prevent injuries and even save a life! Be sure to share these safety tips now and always; prevention is key!