Personal Best Health Wellness - Keeping Kids Safe

Children under age 5 are most at risk for injury and death at home because that’s where they spend most of their time. Simple precautions can reduce or eliminate most home hazards, according to safety experts.

First, look for risks from your child’s point of view. Inspect your home on your hands and knees to see what your toddler can reach. Remove hazards at heights up to an adult’s waist level.

HOUSEHOLD PRECAUTIONS:

• Store cleaning products and medicines out of children’s reach.
• Set hot water heaters at a max – 120°F/49°C to prevent scalding.
• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Keep small objects that toddlers may choke on out of reach.
• Lock lower cabinets.
• If the home is older, check for lead (after 1992, paint has been virtually lead-free). You can also ask your health care provider to test your family for lead exposure.
• Place window blind cords, rope and string out of reach of toddlers and young children.
• Apply covers to electrical outlets.

3 KEYS:

1. Most unintentional injuries are predictable and preventable.
2. Prevention is the best strategy to avoid injuries for all family members.
3. Make injury prevention an ongoing priority in your home.

More Info
Safe Kids Canada, www.sickkids.ca/safekidscanada/