Did you know that injuries are the leading cause of death in Canada among those between one to 44 years of age? Or that injuries cost our economy a staggering $29.4 billion annually? As National Injury Prevention Day approaches on July 5, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from preventable injuries.
At Alliance Chiropractic, we believe that preventing disease and injury is the best way to support healthy living. While it may not be possible to eliminate every risk, prioritizing safety can be relatively simple. By incorporating a few key strategies into your daily life, you can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing an injury at work, home, or play.
Awareness: Your First Line of Defense
Staying alert and mindful of your surroundings is the foundation of effective injury prevention. By identifying potential hazards before they lead to accidents, you can keep yourself and others safe. A whopping 75 percent of injury-related deaths are from unintentional causes, such as falls, car crashes, and poisonings.
Easy Injury Prevention Tips
Ready to take control of your safety? No matter how old you are, here are some practical tips to help you minimize your risk of injury:
- Always warm up and cool down before physical activity
- Learn proper techniques for lifting, shoveling snow, and other demanding tasks
- Listen to your body and pay attention to pain and fatigue
- Wear appropriate gear and footwear for support and protection
Make Safety a Part of Your Daily Routine
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting an exercise routine, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Vary your workouts to avoid repetitive strain injuries, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your sessions. Don’t forget to use protective gear like helmets, pads, and guards when engaging in sports or other physical activities.
Create a Safer Work Environment
Many of us spend a significant portion of our day seated either at work or school – make ergonomics a key factor in injury prevention. Take the time to adjust your work and study space to minimize strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. Remember to take frequent breaks to stand, stretch, and avoid prolonged seated positions.
Why Safety at Home Matters
Your home should be a place where you feel secure and protected. By identifying and addressing potential hazards, you can minimize the risk of falls, poisonings, and other accidents. There are plenty of resources available to help you create a safer home environment for you and your family, including a list at the bottom of this blog..
The Shocking Reality of Preventable Injuries
Every day, 48 Canadians die, and 634 are hospitalized because of injuries. Preventable injury kills more Canadian children than any disease and more youth than all other causes combined. Falls alone are the leading cause of injury deaths, hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and disabilities in Canada.
Join the Movement for a Safer Future
National Injury Prevention Day is about raising awareness and inspiring action. By sharing knowledge and supporting one another, we can work together to help Canadians stay safe and injury-free at home, work, and while enjoying their favorite activities.
At Alliance Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you achieve your injury prevention goals. Don’t wait until you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or restricted movement. If you have questions or concerns about your health and safety, contact us. Serving Ancaster and the Greater Hamilton area for more than 25 years, we’re here to support you on your journey to optimal health and wellness.
IInformation for this article was sourced from Parachute.ca
Other Useful References:
- Parachute Guide to Safety Around the House
- Government of Canada: Home Safety
- Government of Canada: Injury Prevention and Active Living
- Canadian Frailty Network: Avoiding Falls