A brain injury is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head and can affect how a person feels, thinks, acts and learns. It not only impacts the life of an individual and their family, but it also has a large societal and economic toll.
The good news is that most brain injuries can be prevented.
Help keep yourself and loved ones safe:
- Wear a seat belt every time you ride in a car. Be a good role model for the little ones.
- Use the right car or booster seat for your child’s age, height and weight and keep kids under 13 in the back seat.
- Take steps to prevent falls – especially among young children and older adults.
- Wear the right helmet, which fits well, during sports and recreational activities such as biking, skiing and skateboarding.
- Know the symptoms of concussion as they can last days, weeks and even years.
To learn more, visit the Providence online health library, the Centers for Disease Control website or www.safekids.org.