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We call them accidents, but when they happen most of us realize they could have been prevented. “If only I had just been more careful…”, “If only I had taken my time…”, “If only I had used the right tool for the job…”
Preventing injuries is an important way to improve our overall health and wellness. Even a small injury can have long term effects on our ability to work, play and live.
Preventing injury is an important part of protecting ourselves and those around us and making small changes to the way we think and the way we do things can make all the difference.
Check out these links for more information:
Newfoundland and Labrador Safety Council
Injury prevention tips
Safety tips for kids
Safety tips for home
National Injury Prevention Strategy
Public Health Agency of Canada
Canadian Health Network
Think First - National Injury Prevention Foundation
Smart Risk Canada
Catalogue of Newfoundland and Labrador Injury Prevention Programs
Safe Communities Foundation
Safe Kids Canada
Child Safety Link
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Don’t overdo it. When you are out for a jog, don’t push yourself farther than is reasonable. Walk the last mile if you are tired. Know your limits and listen to your body.
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Get in gear. Use the proper equipment for the task at hand. For example, wear safety goggles when using a power saw or tool.
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Dress to be seen. When walking or biking, wear brightly coloured clothing so drivers can see you during the daytime. At night, wear reflective tape on your shoes, cap or jacket to reflect the headlights of the cars coming towards you.
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Safety checklist. Before starting even a short trip in bad weather, check your car's lights, heater, wiper blades, antifreeze and gas tank.
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Don’t be dull. Make sure your kitchen knives are kept sharp. A dull knife can slip and cause injury, and can also cause a worse cut.
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Charge up. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once a year.
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Face first. Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk on the side of the road, always walk FACING traffic.
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Take your time. Whether you are changing a tire, painting a house, or moving furniture, taking your time can prevent injury. Rushing leads to carelessness and errors.
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Buckle up! Everyone should wear seatbelts. Make sure children are in size and age appropriate certified car seats or booster seats.
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Going hunting, hiking, boating or fishing? Before you go be sure to tell someone where you are going to be and when you will return. Make sure to follow safety precautions such as wearing a Personal Floatation Device while fishing or boating.
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Lifting should be limited to objects small enough in size that they can be held close to the body.
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Sit up straight! When you are sitting at your desk, avoid injury by positioning yourself properly at your computer. Your screen should be two feet away from you.
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