Spotlight on Safety: National Childhood Injury Prevention Week!
As we observe National Childhood Injury Prevention Week during the week of September 7th, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the many ways children can be injured and, more importantly, how we can prevent these incidents from occurring. Every year in the U.S., nearly 9.2 million children aged 0-19 are seen in emergency room departments for injuries, many of which could be avoided with extra caution and awareness.
Preventative Measures Can Make A Difference
Every day, over 28,000 youth in the U.S. require emergency medical treatment for injuries. While not all injuries can be prevented, we can reduce risks by managing certain factors. Educating children from newborns to high school about potential dangers, using proper safety gear, and establishing safety rules at home is essential.
Simple Steps for Childhood Injury Prevention
1. Baby Proof Your Home
Secure bookshelves and cabinets to walls with anchors to prevent tipping. Install gates at the top and bottom of stairways to prevent falls. Place soft adhesive cushions on sharp corners and cover electrical outlets to protect your child.
2. Vehicle Safety
For young children, ensure that their car seat is appropriate for their age, weight, and height, and always strap them in. For teenagers starting to drive or get rides from friends, instill in them that they should never distract the driver, always wear seat-belts, not text, and drive under the speed limit.
3. Bike Safety
Equip your children with properly fitting helmets and instruct them on safe riding practices, such as staying in designated bike lanes and following traffic signals. Consider adding a flag to their bike for increased visibility for younger children. Remind them to stay alert for cars pulling in and out of driveways and intersections, regardless of their age.
4. Burn Prevention
Always turn pot handles toward the back of the stove while cooking to prevent spills. Install child safety knobs on the stovetop and ensure there are no matches or lighters accessible. Set your water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C) to reduce the risk of scalding.
5. Sports and Activity Safety
Make it a habit for your children to wear helmets, knee pads, and other protective gear while participating in sports. Teach them the importance of warming up before physical activities to prevent injuries. Stress the importance of hydrating to avoid cramping. Ensure your child reports any injuries to the coach or trainer immediately.
Critical Safety Concerns to Address
Parents must take precautions for additional areas of concern around the home that can have severe or even deadly consequences. These include:
- Have a lock on your medicine cabinet.
- Store all poisonous chemicals safely and out of reach of children.
- Install a locked gate at your pool entrance and establish strict rules for when young children are allowed to swim.
Follow-Up Care with Your Healthcare Provider
Accidents can happen despite precautions, making it crucial for your child to receive proper care after any injury. Even minor injuries can lead to severe issues, so schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider like Harmony Healthcare Long Island for evaluation and peace of mind if your child is injured. This National Childhood Injury Prevention Week, let’s prioritize awareness and safety for our children.
