1. Prevent Car Accidents
Groups like Kids and Cars work to reduce the number of car accidents caused from non-traffic accidents like backing over children. Rolling over children with the front of the car and leaving children in cars also contribute to fatal accidents. Drive under the speed limit in areas where children play. Get a car with a back-up sensor to help detect any object behind the car that may be too little to see out the window. Take a few extra seconds to get out of the car and look around before putting the car in gear. Always take your children out of the car, even if they're asleep. Kids can suffer hyperthermia or heat stroke quicker than you expect. If they can get out of their seat belt or car seat, they may set the car in motion.
2. Take Advantage of Child Safety Products
While laws enforces some child safety products like car seats, they don't require parents to buy every product available. Using safety products helps prevent common childhood injuries like falls or burns. Baby gates block off access to areas like stairways or kitchens where children frequently get injured. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide monitors help keep children safe from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Helmets and padding for elbows and knees prevent biking and skating injuries.
3. Teach Kids to Swim
Drowning is one of the most common childhood injuries. While some people believe kids can learn to swim as early as 6 months of age, research shows swimming lessons won't reduce the chance of drowning until children pass the age of 4. Swimming lessons don't just teach your child how to swim; they work on life saving techniques, which could prevent your child from drowning while trying to help another child. Until your children learn to swim, use other methods for their safety. If you have a pool, a pool alarm signals anytime something breaches the perimeter. Never leave your child unattended in the bath, which is one of the main places children drown.
4. Child Safety Prevents Choking
Choking occurs when any object blocks the airways. Until children learn not to put their toys in their mouth, you need to measure each toy to make sure your child won't choke on it. Toys that pass through a toilet paper roll or fit into a film canister are little enough to choke on. Some toys may look large enough for your baby to play with, but when you test the size, you'll find the toys actually could be a choking hazard. Excess bedding may also cause choking in babies unable to roll over or turn their head, because a thick, comfy blanket or soft pillow can mold around the mouth and nose as they sleep.
