Hearing loud sounds can harm our hearing abilities.

Sound is measured in units called decibels (des-uh-bels). The greater the number of decibels, the louder the sound and the more harmful it is to your ears. The sound thermometer gives you an idea of how loud some sounds are. If you are exposed to sound at 85 decibels and above, it may harm your hearing.

Some sounds harm our hearing abilities, especially loud sounds. Anything higher than 85 decibels is considered a loud sound. The louder the sound and the longer you listen to it, the more harmful it is to your ears and your health.

Start protecting your hearing and your health today!

• Homework and studying should be done in a quiet place.
• Turn down the volume on your television, video game, radio, and music player.
• Walk away from sound that is too loud.
• Wear hearing protectors while attending or participating in loud activities.
• Inform your parents or teacher when you are having difficulty hearing.
• If you hear a ringing sound in your ears after exposure to loud sounds, please tell your parents or teachers

Sound can harm more than just your hearing; it can also cause harm to your health. While at
home, school, or play, think quiet…to keep your ears and health from being harmed by sound.

While at home, sound can cause problems like:

• Trouble sleeping
• Headaches
• Trouble concentrating on your homework
• Difficulty hearing your family members

While at school, sound can cause you to:

• Have trouble concentrating
• Become frustrated when you can’t hear
• Not think clearly
• Have difficulty hearing your teacher and classmates

While at play, the sound is too loud if:

• You can’t hear the person next to you
• It shakes or vibrates your body
• You hear a ringing sound in your ears after exposure to loud sounds

If you are having trouble hearing softer sounds, talk to your parents or teacher and your physician.

Play it safe when it comes to hearing!