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There are many ways to keep from getting hurt in life. 

Practice being safe at Home, in the Car, in Sports, and in the Community.

Home

Falls at home are common.

They can happen when we slip on the floor or are moving or climbing to do something.

Click the blue button to check out the handout to learn if you have a fall risk.

Handout from CDC

Be safer at home. Here are some tips:

Tap to flip the cards.

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How do you stop falls?

Move slow when you stand from a chair or bed.

Check that you feel steady before you move.

Clear out clutter. Don't trip over cords, papers, clothes, small rugs, etc.

Don't over-reach. Take careful steps on a stool. Or get help.

walking upstairs

How can you be safe on the stairs?

Wear shoes with non-slip soles.

Hold the railing when you climb stairs.

hand holding a rail in a bathroom

How can you be safe in the bathroom?

Use non-slip mats in the tub or shower.

Hold on when you get in and out.

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Do not fall - Handout from U.S. Health

Handout
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Car

  • Always wear a seatbelt. Make sure you are comfortable before you drive.
    • Ask your doctor about getting a special seatbelt, harness, or seat if you have trouble using the usual ones.
  • Don't bother the driver.
    •  Keep your hands away from him or her. Don't ask for things from the driver while he or she is paying attention to the road.

 

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Behavior Health in the Car

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Physical needs in the car

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Sports

Sports are a great way to stay active. Find the sports you enjoy. Learn how to be safe when doing them.

  • If you are new to a sport, ask someone for training or help.
  • Wear the right safety equipment. Learn about goggles, helmets, and pads. Sports bras and compression pants can also be a help.
  • Check out the environment to make sure you have chosen a safe place for your sport.
  • Don't overdo it. Build up your strength with practice. Stop if you are having pain. Tell someone.
  • Watch the weather. Be careful about the heat, cold or wind. Protect yourself from the sun.
  • Ask your doctor if you have any condition that might make some sports better for you than others. Seizures and heart problems are two examples of ones that might have special rules.

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Helmets

We never plan to have a fall on a bike or when doing other sports. But sometimes we do fall. Helmets are a great way to keep your brains safe. Wear a helmet every time you do a sport like biking, skating, skateboarding, skiing, using a scooter and more.

Learn how to make sure your helmet fits from Children's Wisconsin.

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Prevent Heat Stroke

Heat problems often occur when you play too long and hard when it is hot or you are in the sun.

  • Take regular breaks.
  • Move into the shade if it is sunny or into air conditioning if you can.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Tell someone if you feel too hot, dizzy, or weak.
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Bonus Tip: Special Olympics Sports Essentials

Check this resource for more information on sports essentials.

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Community Helpers

Police, fire fighters, emergency techs all help us.

Police also make sure that people follow laws.

Learn how to work safely with these helpers.

 

Here are some rules to use when you meet a community helper:

  • Stay still. Do not run.
  • Show your hands. Do not put them in your pockets or your bag.
  • Do not touch or stand too close to the helper.
  • Do you best to tell the helper that you have a disability.
  • Listen and do what they tell you to do.
  • If you don't understand something, do your best to say that.

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Be Safe The Movie

“Be Safe The Movie” teaches about how to work with police if you have a disability. 

 

Click here to view more information on the movie. 

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Extra Help for Caregivers

Interacting with Law Enforcement