Trauma Prevention

To help reduce your chances of trauma, the CDC and the National Safety Council recommend that you take the following steps:

• Always use seat belts.
• Never drive or operate any equipment while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Certain medications can be dangerous as well.
• Don't use a cell phone while driving.
• Keep poisons, medicine, and cleaning supplies locked up. Keep them away from small children.
• Teach children to swim. Teach all family members about water safety.
• Develop a fire safety plan.
• Make sure all alarm and fire equipment is up to date. (eg, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers)
• If you have firearms in the house, make sure they are kept unloaded. Keep them in a locked location.
• Wear helmets while biking.
• Wear the right safety equipment for all sports and recreation activities.
• Wear appropriate protective gear when using power tools.
• Help prevent falls in the home. Install night lights, grab bars, and hand rails.
• Avoid putting yourself at risk for an accident, violence, or other physical trauma.