One out of every three cases of hearing loss in the United States is 100 percent avoidable. These cases — caused by noise exposure — affect approximately 36 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Audiology, reports Health Cleveland Clinic.

Many people don’t realize how noise exposure could put them at risk for this type of hearing loss. This is especially important to explain to young people, who may not fully understand the consequences of exposure nor realize how they can protect their hearing.

The Centers for Disease Control report that an estimated 12.5 percent of children and adolescents aged 6–19 years (approximately 5.2 million) have suffered permanent damage to their hearing from excessive exposure to noise.

Any sound too loud and far too long can cause permanent hearing loss.

Exposure to sounds 85dba or above can be harmful.

Walk away from the sound if possible;

Turn down the volume;

Wear hearing protection.

How ear protection works:

Wearing earpuffs or earplugs reduces the loudness of the sound reaching your ears.

Choose your ear gear by its noise reduction rating (NRR) or how effective it is at reducing noise when worn properly.

Learn how to correctly insert or wear your gear – a bad fit won't provide maximum protection.

Do you shoot guns?

Wear ear muffs.

Do you ride motorcycles or snowmobiles, go to concerts or work in a noisy environment?

Wear earplugs.

Disposable or reusable earplugs are available at many retailers.

Custom-made ear plugs are perfect for those who regularly wear them and want a comfortable fit.

Musician's ear plugs reduces sound levels without distorting sound quality. Great for musicians, sound crew workers and recording engineers.