ABOUT BRAIN INJURY PREVENTION

Every 3 minutes, someone in Canada acquires a brain injury.

Since there are no drugs or techniques that can cure a brain injury, prevention is the only way to reduce its prevalence.

What causes a Brain Injury?

From slipping on a patch of ice to falling off a bike, there are numerous ways a person can sustain a brain injury . Below are some of the most common causes.

Since so many brain injuries in Canada are sustained while playing sports, preventing sports injuries is one of the BrainLove campaign’s priorities. To prevent brain injuries while playing sports:

Get your concussion symptoms checked out rather than ignoring them and returning to play. Concussions are brain injuries.

Encourage your team to commit to preventing brain injuries alongside other coaches and athletes across the country.

Stay away from reckless play (e.g. attempting to injure another player) when playing hockey, football, or any other contact sport.

Wear a helmet when biking, skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, or participating in any activity when a hard crash is a risk.

Ensure that your gear is up to safety standards.

Falls

Hard falls are the greatest risk for brain injury worldwide, and are a severe health risk, especially for children and older adults. We can help prevent these injuries by:

Improving lighting so that all areas of your home are well-lit.

Providing opportunities for healthy habits and exercise.

Booking in for regular eye appointments and balance checkups.

Ensuring floors and steps are clear of objects.

Installing guardrails.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are the second largest cause of brain injury. This includes ATVs, snowmobiles, and bikes as well as cars. To reduce your risk of brain injury:

Always wear a seatbelt while in motion.

Only drive when sober and focused.

Follow the rules of the road – reckless driving or speeding are not worth it.

Ensure children under 8 years old sit in a car seat.

Enroll in a safety course for ATVs and snowmobiles.

Wear a helmet on ATVs, bikes and snowmobiles.

What impact can applying these strategies have?

While it is impossible to fully eliminate all risks, the above strategies can prevent mild head injuries and turn life-threatening brain injuries into milder ones.

By sharing these tips, it is our hope that everyone – children, the elderly, drivers, athletes, and the community at large – can understand the risks and better protect themselves. With your help, we can work together as a community to create a safer, healthier Canada.

Please be sure to tag us and use the hashtag #SBIA.

Have Questions?

Don’t be shy! Say Hello! We are always happy to connect with the community and answer any questions you may have! Reach out to us today and one of our team members will reach out to you!