Preventing Head Concussions

(Or as my mother always said, “Good Gawd! Use some commonsense boy! Use your head!”)

Of course some accidents can’t be avoided. Who knew that trying to down a 16 oz beer while riding down rough asphalt on a skateboard could land you head first?

But, for the rest of you, there are many proactive measures you can take to prevent concussions. Try these no-brainers for starters:

Always use a seat belt. Yep, that thing that causes your car dashboard to beep if you are not wearing it can prevent severe head trauma, whiplash, traumatic brain injuries and genereally keep you out of the hospital. Use it. It is good for you and your noggin.

Of course, if you drive, when not texting, changing the radio station, dialing your cell phone and singing your favorite Abba sound (loudly, out of key and obnoxiously I might add) be attentive at all times. Do the things you learned as a 16 year old in drivers ed class – obey speed limits, signs, two hands on the wheel and drive defensively (and pray the other drivers are doing the same).

This may come as a surprise to some, but never use alcohol (or other drugs) when you are driving. Slow reactions can lead to a concussion which can lead to a slow brain.

Wear your helmet; with the strapped snugly pulled under your chin. Whether you are on a bike, skateboard, motorcycle, playing football, rollarblading, snowboarding or skiing, playing contact sports, or even dressing up like a WWI soldier for Halloween, wear your helmet. When you properly wear appropriate headgear and safety equipment you are safer.

There you have it, be careful, be smart, have commonsense and, “Good Gawd! Use some commonsense boy! Use your head!”