Adolescent Safety
The top three causes of death among teens are accidents, murders and suicides. We can prevent most of these deaths.
Affinity Health Plan cares about your child’s safety. Here are some safety tips to follow:
Cyber Bullying
What is Cyber Bullying?
This is bullying that happens using a computer or cell phone.There is a strong link between suicides and cyber bullying.
Suicide and Bullying.
The CDC says that suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people - 4,400 deaths per year.
For each suicide among young people, there are at least 100 suicide tries.
Over 14 percent of high school students have thought about suicide. Almost 7 percent have tried it.
What can you do?
Don’t answer emails or messages that say mean things to you or your friends.
Don’t pass on emails or messages that are mean or that spread rumors about other people.
Block anyone who acts like a cyber-bully.
Save or print all messages from bullies. Show them to an adult you trust and ask for help.
Take all talk or threats of suicide seriously. Get the person help right away.
Driving or Riding in a Car
Follow the speed limit when driving.
Buckle up, even when in the back seat.
Never drive when drinking or get in the car with a driver who has been drinking.
Never use a cell phone or text message while driving.
Never ride in the back of a pick-up truck.
Homicides / Weapons
Murder is one of the most shocking causes of death among children and teens.
Never hang around other kids who have guns or knives.
Never play with weapons in your home.
Sports Safety
Always wear helmets, knee pads and mouth and teeth protectors when playing contact sports.
Always wear eye guards when playing contact sports.
Always wear protective gear when cycling, rollerblading, or riding a scooter. (Always wear a helmet.)
Water Activities
Never go in the water if you do not know how to swim.
Never swim in places that don’t have lifeguards or where swimming is not allowed.
Never dive into water if you do not know how deep it is.
Don’t boat or swim at night.
Don’t swim with others who have been drinking.
Always wear a life vest when boating.
Fire Safety
Always put out candles and cigarettes before going to bed.
Never smoke in bed.
Never leave matches where children can find them.
For more facts go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/positiveparenting/adolescence2.html