Prevent Falls at All Ages

You do all you can to keep your children safe. But did you know that every day approximately 8,000 children are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fall-related injuries? It’s always good to review a few tips on preventing falls.

Newborns and Babies

Babies learn so fast! To reduce the risk of falls, it’s important to be aware of what skills your baby is likely to develop next. Here are a few reminders to keep baby safe:

• Don’t leave a baby unattended on a changing table, bed, or sofa, or in a crib with the sides down.

• Use all the safety straps provided when using an infant seat, swing, or jumper. Don’t leave a baby unattended.

• Don’t use baby walkers. Walkers can cause severe accidents, such as a fall down a flight of stairs.

• Do not leave a baby alone in or around a bathtub.

Toddlers and Young Children

Toddlers and young children like to explore, climb, walk, run, and dance. These activities put them at risk for falls. Here are a few ways you can prevent accidents:

• As soon as your toddler can walk, keep the doors to all dangerous areas locked. Keep keys out of sight and reach.

• Always use the safety straps on high chairs and changing tables and keep a close eye on your child.

• Consider sliding gates at the ends of stairways. Look for a gate with openings no bigger than 2.3 inches.

• Keep stairways uncluttered and make sure any carpeting on stairs is in good condition. Keep uncarpeted stairs clean but not slick.

• Ask children to stay seated when eating or drinking. And, don’t allow them to walk or run with objects in their mouth.

• Make sure windows are closed and locked securely when children are present.

• Supervise young children at all times around playground equipment. Avoid playgrounds that don’t have a soft surface beneath the equipment.