Athens, Ga. (November 16, 2023) – In the United States, injuries lead to more deaths than all other diseases combined and are the leading cause of death and disability in individuals aged one to 44. However, many injuries are preventable, and organizations like Piedmont Athens Regional and Safe Kids Athens are committed to educating the community on safety practices to prevent injuries. During National Injury Prevention Week, Piedmont Athens Regional is shining a green light to raise awareness about injury prevention.

Throughout the week of Nov. 13, Piedmont Athens Regional’s trauma program leaders and Safe Kids Athens representatives are leading various educational activities such as Stop the Bleed training, safety techniques, and training at the Athens YMCA, as well as hosting injury prevention booths both at the hospital and the Oconee Health Campus. Green lights are shining each night inside the Main Tower on Prince Avenue to demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to safety. On Saturday, Nov. 18, the team will be at the PetSmart at the Oconee Connector from 12 to 3 p.m., offering safety tips to patrons. Customers will also have the opportunity to purchase stuffed animals from PetSmart to donate to Piedmont Athens Regional’s pediatric department.

To learn more about injury prevention at Piedmont Athens Regional, contact Kristi Perkins, injury prevention and outreach coordinator and trauma educator, at kristi.perkins@piedmont.org. To learn more about Safe Kids Athens, please contact April Dorsett at april.dorsett@piedmont.org.