A Fall-Free Future: Shielding New Jersey from Traumatic Brain Injuries
Our mission is to promote safety, raise awareness, and prevent brain injuries. Falls can happen to anyone at any time. Certain populations are at higher risk for falls including children, people with disabilities, and older adults. Some industries and workplaces also face higher risks of falls. As an organization dedicated to safeguarding our community’s well-being, we strive to address the alarming prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Our commitment to fall prevention education empowers individuals and families to create safer environments and protect their loved ones from unnecessary risks. Together, we can make a significant impact on preventing brain injuries and fostering a safer, more secure future for all. Join us in our efforts to build a safer New Jersey for generations to come!
Preventing Falls in Children
Every day, 8,000 children require emergency room treatment for fall-related injuries—making falls the leading cause of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) among children aged 0 to 4. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for preventive measures to safeguard our children’s well-being.
Causes of these fall-related injuries among children include sports-related incidents and falls from stairs, windows, and playground equipment. Understanding simple prevention strategies can help to reduce the risk of falls.
Preventive Measures to Safeguard Children from Fall-Related Injuries
- Always use proper protective gear, such as helmets, while playing sports.
- Always wear helmets when riding bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or participating in other wheeled sports.
- Maintain constant supervision of young children around fall hazards or when they are on elevated areas.
- Install protective rails on beds and guards on windows.
- Utilize gates at both ends of stairways to prevent young children from accessing stairs without supervision.
- Ensure play areas are well-maintained and regularly inspected, ensuring playground equipment is free from hazards.
By implementing these preventive measures and raising awareness about the risks of fall-related injuries, we can create a safer environment for our children.
Family & Children Fall Prevention Resources
Preventing Workplace Falls
18% of non-fatal workplace injuries nationwide are caused by falls. While falls can happen in any workplace, certain industries are at higher risk. These incidents can result from unguarded edges, damaged safety equipment, slippery conditions, improperly installed guardrails, improper ladder use, obstructed views, inadequate lighting, and failure to utilize fall prevention equipment when working at heights.
Preventive Measures to Ensure a Safer Work Environment
- Use physical barriers, guardrails, or scaffolding to prevent falls from heights.
- Utilize harnesses or anchor points when necessary.
- Practice proper ladder usage, always adhering to safety guidelines.
- Promptly clean up all spills and remove debris to eliminate slip hazards.
- Ensure work areas are well-lit to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping.
- Regularly inspect safety equipment before each use to guarantee its effectiveness and reliability.
By adopting these preventive measures, employers and workers can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls, fostering a safer and more secure work environment for everyone.
Workplace Fall Prevention Resources
Preventing Falls in Older Adults
In New Jersey, an alarming 1 in 4 adults aged 65 years and older experience at least one fall per year, making falls the leading cause of brain injuries in this age group. It’s crucial to understand the causes of these falls and take proactive measures to protect the well-being of older adults.
Causes of falls among older adults include muscle weakness, balance and coordination issues, medication side effects, vision and hearing impairments, hazards in the home environment, foot problems, postural hypotension, and medical conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s, and others. Recognizing these risk factors can help create a safer environment for our older population.
Preventive Measures to Ensure the Safety of Older Adults
- Consult with your healthcare provider to review the side effects of your medications.
- Engage in regular exercise to improve balance and strength.
- Check your vision, hearing, and feet annually.
- Clear your home and pathways of tripping hazards and clutter.
- Wear secure shoes or nonslip socks that provide stability and prevent slips on smooth surfaces.
- Install grab bars in bathrooms and railings on stairs.
- Ensure your home is well-lit, especially in areas where you walk and move frequently.
By taking these preventive measures and promoting awareness about fall risks, we can create a safer environment for older adults in New Jersey.
Older Adults Fall Prevention Resources
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The Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey is committed to making our resources accessible to all. Explore our free resources today and gain access to educational materials and practical tips to prevent brain injuries.
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In addition to our online resources, we offer educational opportunities and events to enhance your understanding of brain injury prevention. Join us for interactive sessions, where you can learn practical techniques, ask questions, and connect with others who share similar concerns.