As we are into the prime summer days, we can't let our summer safety falter. From bike riding to having fun in the water, it is a fact that we see an increase in serious injuries including SCI this time of year. Check out our Paralysis Prevalence Study that shows over 200,000 people living with spinal cord injuries caused by sporting and recreational accidents in the United States.

Okay, so bike riding. It's an easy and fun way to get around in the warm weather. I notice now more than ever if people are wearing helmets -- and not just wearing them, but wearing them the right way!

- Two weeks ago, I noticed my 6-year-old cousin’s helmet was way too big on her; it was leaning back on her head. A quick of tightening the straps allowed it to sit right on top of her head.

- Yesterday, I saw a girl I graduated with riding her bike with her dad around town without helmets. No matter your age, strap a helmet on, please!

- Moments before, I saw a young boy about to cross the busy street (I have seen numerous accidents on this corner!) Kudos to him as he was wearing his helmet, but it wasn't buckled! What good is that if he gets hit?

- And let's not forget about the other pre-teen boy I saw riding around last week. I almost had to laugh, actually, because there was a helmet hanging off his handlebars as he was riding. I give credit to his parents who probably made him leave the house with that helmet on, but I bet he turned the corner out of mom and dad's sight and it came right off. Put on that helmet young man!

Ring, ring, ring. We are in the digital age where cell phones are the norm. They are attached to our hips, and in most cases, hands. Literally. At 25-years-old, I feel like my mom preaching this (I love you mom!) but put those cell phones down when you are driving. PLEASE! No texting and driving. It’s absurd, really.

Onto to the water... enjoying personal water crafts, swimming, diving. I think one of my favorite Olympic sports is diving. The speed and intensity of the individuals hitting the water is awesome to watch. But these people are professionals. I recently read two separate articles of teenagers having broken their necks because of diving. (Here is a piece about an increase in serious head and neck injuries in Maryland. ) And don’t forget, if you are cruising the water on a personal watercraft or boat, watch your surroundings! You may be careful but unfortunately not everyone is, so keep an eye out.

For more tips on summer safety, click here.

Happy and safe summer, everyone!

Janelle

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