Hearing Protection Tips

Be aware of noise.  Whenever you can, turn down the volume on radios, TVs or speakers. Because of noise, if you can't hear or be heard by someone within 3 feet, the noise is too loud.

Be cautious with headphones and ear buds.  If you're using headphones or ear buds and the person next to you can hear what you're listening to, the noise is too loud.

Wear hearing protection.  The best hearing protection device is one that you can wear correctly. Whether you choose earplugs or earmuffs, look for something that offers an airtight seal. Wear hearing protection around loud sounds at home (i.e. mowing the lawn) and work (i.e. factory noise). 

Make sure that your ears are always properly covered by a hat or ear muffs in the cold, rain and wind. This will keep your ears and ear canals warm and dry. 

Wear the proper protective gear for your head and ears while competing in sports such as ice hockey, rugby, football, fencing, boxing, lacrosse, hunting and martial arts. 

If you are a musician, always wear ear protection during practices and rehearsals. 

Be on the lookout for ear infections.  Babies and young children are more susceptible to middle ear infections than adults.  Untreated ear infections can affect hearing.  Babies often cry and pull at their ears when they have an ear infection and older children complain of a sore ear.  If you suspect that your child has an ear infection, see your family doctor.

Keep foreign objects out of babies and children's ears.