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Neuroscience For Kids

Diving and Head Injuries
August 20, 2008

Let's go over some rules for the pool:

Walk, don't run.
No pushing.
Wear sunscreen.
Know your limits.
Be careful when you dive.

The last rule about diving is important when you consider the high number of diving injuries. Researchers at Ohio State University and Nationwide Children's Hospital (Columbus, OH) estimate that hospital emergency departments see an average of 6,549 diving injuries each year to people younger than 20 years old. The head and neck (38.2% of all injuries) and face (27% of all injuries) were the most common body areas injured. Other findings from the study:

So, for the rest of the summer, have fun, but be safe in and out of the water. When you dive:

  1. Make sure the water is deep enough and clear of obstacles such as rocks.
  2. Swim when a lifeguard is around.
  3. Swim with a buddy.
  4. Know how to dive properly and take lessons if you need them.

References and further information:

Copyright © 1996-2008, Eric H. Chudler, University of Washington