Canadian Injury Prevention Day is a day to raise awareness about how preventing injuries can save lives, reduce long-term disabilities, and decrease hospital admissions.
In BC, injuries remain a major public health concern, and almost all are preventable. The BC Centre for Disease Control reports that injuries are the leading cause of death for individuals aged one to 44.
First Nations people may face a higher risk of injury due to the ongoing impacts of colonialism including poverty, unsafe or inadequate housing, and limited access to health care services because of being situated on reserves in remote areas.
Simple, everyday actions can help reduce the risk of preventable injuries at home, on the road, and during recreation. Some examples include:
- Wearing appropriate protective gear when playing sports or operating vehicles such as cars, boats, and snowmobiles.
- Preventing falls by identifying and reducing hazards in the home, as well as being aware of surroundings when outside.
- Practising water safety.
- Keeping household chemicals and cleaning products securely stored out of reach of children.
FNHA supports culturally grounded approaches to injury prevention that reflect traditional knowledge and community-led education. One example is the Aboriginal Head Start On-Reserve program, which takes a wholistic wellness approach that includes raising awareness about injury risks and sharing practical prevention strategies with families.
In many Indigenous worldviews, the concept of relationality recognizes that all things are interconnected. This understanding reinforces that true injury prevention is a shared responsibility rooted in community, culture, and collective care.
By working together, communities can help prevent injuries that disrupt lives and disconnect people from their families, cultures, and territories. We remain committed to supporting First Nations-led safety, well-being, and self-determination so that individuals and families can thrive on their territories for generations to come.
Learn more about injury prevention at these trusted websites:
