Protect Your Noggin: "Safety is No Accident"

Traumatic brain injury in Alaska is 28 percent higher than the rest of the country and brain injuries are among the ten leading causes of hospitalizations in Alaska.

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By KTVA CBS 11
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Story Created: Apr 7, 2011 at 3:03 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Apr 7, 2011 at 4:59 PM AKDT

This week, KTVA CBS 11 news is partnering up with the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services for National Public Health week.

This year's theme: “Safety is No Accident.” Each night, KTVA CBS 11 News’ broadcasts will highlight a different topic and educate viewers how to better protect themselves and their loved ones.

Wednesday’s topic: How to avoid brain injury by protecting yourself at play.

Exhibit A: The Rage City Roller Girls. These ladies always make sure they are protected from head to toe, just as anyone who either braves the great Alaskan outdoors (or indoors) should be doing.

"We have officials that enforce that rule set and make sure we are skating safe,” said Rage City Roller girl Tower Puss.

Gear checks are also conducted before every bout and to make sure skaters’ pads are situated safe and secure. Proper helmet wear is always inspected as to avoid concussions and other brain injury.

Traumatic brain injury in Alaska is 28 percent higher than the rest of the country and brain injuries are among the ten leading causes of hospitalizations in Alaska.

Every year, 800 Alaskans become victims of traumatic brain injury, but protecting yourself can be a snap.

"One of the primary causes of having a bad outcome from a brain injury is lack of helmet use when doing those recreational activities,” said Dr. Heather Macomber of Alaska Neuro Associates.

Also, isolated pockets of population sprinkled throughout Alaska makes seeking immediate medical attention challenging and often require a Medivac to an Anchorage hospital. 

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