The National Safety Council (NSC) and thousands of other organizations across the United States are promoting National Safety Month this June. This month-long focus on safety is designed to raise awareness of what it takes to keep ourselves and each other safe by helping reduce the leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road, and in homes and communities.
This year the NSC focuses on a different subject each week of June. The 1st week centers on helping people become aware of the danger surrounding slip-and-fall accidents. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in adults age 65 and older. In 2013, there were about 2.5 million nonfatal falls that were treated in emergency departments. The NSC lists several ways you can help prevent fall accidents, particularly with older adults, here.
The 2nd week focuses on the dangers of fatigue. Not only is fatigue dangerous on the road, but it can lead to a number of fatal and nonfatal workplace accidents. According to the National Health Interview Survey, adults need at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, but 30% of people report averaging less than 6 hours. Not only does a lack of sleep help contribute to sloppiness and accidents, but it can also lead to depression, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other illnesses. Read more about what you can do to prevent fatigue here.
The NSC focuses its 3rd week on preparing for active shooters. The number of active shooter incidents continues to rise, according to data by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. From 2000 to 2015, there has been an increase from 2 to 20 active shooter incidents. The NSC offers active shooter training for people who wish to better prepare for these events.
The last week of the month will be focused on ergonomics and the importance of treating your body well at home and at work. One of the best ways to avoid repetitive stress injuries (RSI) is to have an ergonomic workplace. RSIs and overexertion are the biggest risk factors for American workers. For more information about the course NSC offers on ergonomics, visit their page here.
If you’ve been injured by the negligence of another person, don’t hesitate to give our Kansas City personal injury attorneys a call. Presley & Presley, LLC is dedicated to providing tenacious advocacy to those in need of compensation after a serious accident.
Call us at 816.931.4611 or fill out our online form to schedule your free case consultation today.