How can I keep my child safe from injury?

Here are some steps for preventing the leading causes of childhood injuries:

Suffocation

• Make sure infants sleep alone, placed on their backs on a firm surface.
• Be sure the crib meets safety standards.
• Avoid loose bedding or soft toys in the crib.

Poisoning

• Keep medicines away from children and teens.
• Keep cleaning solutions and other toxic products in original packaging and where children can't get them.

Motor vehicle crashes

• Always use seat belts, child safety seats, and booster seats that are correct for a child's age and weight.
• Use safe-driving agreements or contracts with teens.

Drowning

• Learn to swim -- important for parents and kids.
• Use a four-sided fence with self-closing and self-latching gates around pool.
• Watch kids closely when they swim.

Fire/burns

• Use smoke alarms -- where people sleep and on every level of the home -- and test monthly.
• Create and practice a family fire escape plan.
• Install a home fire sprinkler system if possible.

Falls

• Use a soft landing surface on playgrounds (such as sand or wood chips, not dirt or grass).
• Use protective gear, like a helmet, during sports and recreation.
• Install protective rails on bunk beds and loft beds.

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