How to protect your hearing ?

Hearing is one of our most important senses -- it allows us to communicate, to learn and to enjoy things like music and conversation. However, what many people don't realize is that they are exposing their ears to a huge amount of potentially damaging noise on a daily basis. A large part of protecting your hearing is learning to recognize potentially dangerous noise levels. Then you will have a better idea of what to avoid.

Potentially dangerous noise levels

Useful tips to protect hearing

• Turn down high sounds, such as music,to a comfortable level
• If listening to music, switch to headphones instead of earphones, as these provide better sound quality at a lower volume.
• Try to follow the 60/60 rule when listening to music on an MP3 player. This means you should listen to music at no more than 60% of your music player's maximum volume, for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
• Put earplugs in "hazardous sound environments", where you can be exposed to loud noises for prolonged periods of time. This includes work environments such as factories with noisy machinery, construction sites, hunting places or fire shooting areas...
• During live concerts, strategically position yourself away from any amplifiers, speakers or stage monitors and try to take “quiet breaks” by going outside 5 minutes every one hour

Many people experience a ringing sound in their ears after leaving a concert, which should be taken as a warning sign.If you are experiencing ringing ears, ear pain, or a hearing problem, it's a good idea to consult a specialist.