June is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

Brain injury is the number one killer and disabler of younger Canadians. The cost of brain injury to Canadian society is immense—estimated to be more than $1 billion per year.

Head injuries are the leading cause of serious injury and death to kids on wheels (i.e., bikes, rollerblades, skateboards etc.) and most of the serious brain injuries can be prevented by wearing a helmet. Children are also at a higher risk for head injuries in a motor vehicle crash when they are not restrained properly. It is essential that parents and caregivers use car seats, booster seats, and seat belts as intended. Here are the general guidelines:

• Children must use a rear-facing car seat until at least one year of age and at least 10 kg (22 pounds).


• A forward-facing car seat may be used until they weigh at least 18 kg (40 pounds), which is normally reached at about age 4 or 5 years.


• A booster seat should then be used until the child is at least 36 kg (80 pounds) and 145 cm (57 in.) tall, typically reached at about 9 years of age.


• Children can transition to a using just a seat belt once it rests in the correct position on their body.

Set a good example by always wearing a helmet while cycling and wearing your seat belt while in a vehicle. Always use proper child safety seats and boosters for your children. They’re depending on you!