Child Safety Tips

Burns

Younger children are more likely to sustain injuries from scald burns that are caused by hot liquids or steam, while older children are more likely to sustain injuries from flame burns that are caused by direct contact with fire.

Safety measures include,

• Install and maintain smoke alarms in your home—on every floor and near all rooms family members sleep in.
• Create and practice a family fire escape plan, and involve kids in the planning. 
• Use safe cooking practices, such as never leaving food unattended on the stove. Also, supervise or restrict children’s use of stoves, ovens, and especially microwaves.
• Infants and small children may not be able to get away from water that may be too hot, and maintaining a constant thermostat setting can help control the water temperature throughout your home—preventing it from getting too high.

Falls

Falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries for all children ages 0 to 19.
Falls on the playground are a common cause of injury. 

• Make sure that the surfaces under playground equipment are safe, soft, and consist of appropriate materials (such as wood chips or sand, not dirt or grass). The surface materials should be an appropriate depth and well-maintained.
• Use home safety devices, such as guards on windows that are above ground level, stair gates, and guard rails. These devices can help keep a busy, active child from taking a dangerous tumble.
• Wear protective gear during sports and recreation.
• Supervise young children at all times around fall hazards, such as stairs and playground equipment, whether you’re at home or out to play.