As a Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator at UPMC Williamsport, I see firsthand the impact that preventable injuries have on our community. National Injury Prevention Day, observed each November 18^th, is a critical reminder of the importance of safety in our daily lives. At UPMC, we are dedicated not only to treating injuries but also to educating the public on ways to prevent them.

Unintentional injuries are among the leading causes of emergency room visits and hospitalizations, particularly among children, teens, and older adults. These include injuries from motor vehicle crashes, falls, sports, and even firearm incidents. Many of these injuries could be avoided with simple, proactive steps.

This year, we are focusing on a few essential safety practices. We encourage everyone to wear seat belts, use helmets, secure firearms safely, and implement fall prevention strategies at home, especially for children and older adults. Additionally, we advocate for attentive, distraction-free driving and safe storage of medications to prevent accidental poisonings.

At UPMC in North Central Pa. hospitals, we provide resources and programs to promote safety in our community, including injury prevention workshops, child passenger safety seat checks, and fall prevention education. These resources are available because we believe that every injury prevented is a success story.

National Injury Prevention Day is a call for all of us to work together to protect our loved ones. Join us in prioritizing safety, spreading awareness, and implementing these practices at home and in our community. Together, we can make a difference.