Keeping The Under 5s Safe
Reducing The Risk
Accidental falls
Always
- Keep stairways free from obstructions e.g. toys, shoes, etc.
- Have a secured staircase handrail and use it.
- Ensure that your outdoor play equipment is firmly fixed and correctly assembled.
- Make sure that your child is supervised in their baby walker.
- Supervise your baby on the bed.
Out and about
Always
- Set a good example when crossing the road.
- Keep hold of your child in the car park.
- Use reins and harnesses.
- Ensure that children get in and out of the car on the pavement side.
- Make sure your child's car seat is suitable for his/her weight.
Scalds and burns
Always
- Use a short or curly flex on your electrical appliances.
- Have a fixed and secure fire guard.
- Make sure matches and lighters are kept out of the reach of children.
- Use the back rings of the cooker and keep pan handles turned inwards.
- Put cold water in the bath before adding hot water.
- Keep hot drinks well out of the reach of children.
Do You ?
Drowning and choking
Always
- Ensure your child is supervised near water e.g. bath time, paddling pool, garden pond etc.
- Check toys for small parts. (young children often place them in their mouth).
- Ensure garden ponds are surrounded by a fence and covered by a strong net.
Poisoning
Always
- Store medicines, household cleaning products and toiletries out of sight and out of reach.
- Store batteries in a safe place away from children.
- Check for poisonous plants in the garden.
- Keep household and garden chemicals in their original containers.
- Store garden chemicals out of sight and out of reach.
Remember
Children need to explore and learn about their environment. They must play and take some risks. They will get hurt. Try to ensure that the "hurt" is not serious.
You are advised to keep a fully stocked First Aid kit in your home.
You should restrict access to kitchens and stairways with a Safety Gate.
Make sure toys and play equipment have no sharp edges.
The most frequent accidents to children are falls, poisonings and burns.
Check your children are playing safely at all times.
Cover low level electrical sockets with socket covers.
Many children are seriously injured in fires. Protect your home by fitting a Smoke Alarm.
Do you
Always?
Information
Should you require any more information about Home, or Water Safety the Safety and Food Education Team (SaFE) is there to help.
The Helpline telephone shown below is a 24 hour number where you can leave a message if there are no staff available.
Telephone : (01302) 736244
Last Updated - Monday, 04 August 2008
