November is National Child Safety and Protection month in which awareness is raised for the innocent lives lost to often preventable and unintentional injuries. According to the CDC, an average of 12,175 children die each year from accidents like these. It is important to know that safety starts at home with simple measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of these tragedies.
Some safety tips to remember:
• Keep cleaning supplies, medicines, garden chemicals and toxic substances up high and out of reach
• Learn to install and buckle up your child’s car seat properly and adjust straps so that they are placed over their chest
• Teach children to not play near or on the street and always ask an adult for help if a toy goes past the driveway
• Be aware of bodies of water and enforce safety rules such as no running or playing near the water
• Always check on kids, whether they are in their room or crib. It only takes seconds for something to go wrong
Warmer weather brings with it an excuse to take a dip into a pool, ocean or lake! In addition to brushing up on swim safety, having family members trained in CPR can be crucial in the event of an unlikely emergency. You should also to be vigilant against unwelcomed pests and mosquitos lurking near pools of standing water around your home or outdoor space. Walking, not running, around wet/damp areas is always a good way to prevent injury to family and friends. Using paper or plastic drinkware around the pool or deck areas will eliminate the risk of broken glass and related potential injuries. Finally, maintaining a buddy system is critical in helping prevent avoidable water accidents at home or elsewhere.
Western Mutual Insurance Group 