Tag Archives: children

General Safety Issues

EDUCATE YOUR KIDS ON ELECTRICAL SAFETY (GUEST POST)

Another great article sent to us by Grace Beckett.

Educate Your Kids on Electrical Safety

It is important that you keep your family and home safe from the danger that electrical appliances pose. Electrical safety must be observed each time you touch an appliance connected to electrical circuits. Even bad weather conditions, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and ice storms can pose a great risk to your electrical safety. Apart from you being careful, you have to ensure that you educate your child on electrical safety. Electricity surrounds your children everyday as they work on computers, encounter cords, appliances, power lines and outlets. 

When it comes to your kids, it is important that you teach them safety skills that they can use to make informed decisions when they are around electricity. Make sure that you teach your child how to avoid injuries due to electricity. Here are few things regarding electricity, which you should educate your kids about. 

Electricity follows the simplest route through the ground 

Inform your kid that electricity always tries and gets to the ground. Electricity takes a shortcut whenever possible. So, if some material like iron provides an easy path for electricity to travel, it will definitely take it! 

Electricity and the body 

It is important that you inform your child that metal and water are the best conductors of electricity. Mention that the water in our bodies makes us good conductors of electricity. Make your child understand that if he touches the ground and any electrical circuit simultaneously, he will become the carrier of electricity. Tell your children that electricity can easily flow through them and can hurt or kill them. 

Your children should know that they need not touch the ground directly to experience a shock or conduct electricity. Even when they touch a faulty electrical appliance while holding on to a bad conductor of electricity, like wood or tree, they can get an electrical shock.  

When your child is standing in water or touching an electrical appliance with wet hands, he or she can experience shocks, as electricity can rapidly travel through water. This is the main reason why you have to keep away all the electrical appliances from water. Ensure that you tell your child not to touch any electrical appliance when his or her hand is wet. Standing in a wet and marshy area touching electrical appliances can be very dangerous. 

Electricity and appliances 

Most of the electrical appliances have insulated coverings and cords to avoid electric shocks. Whenever your child is using an electrical appliance, ensure that he or she keeps the coverings and the cords in position to avoid electric shocks. If you find that the insulation for a particular appliance is not intact, tell your child not to touch that appliance until it is fixed. 

What should your child know about electric shocks?  

Nobody can tell when the contact with electricity can be fatal; so let your child know that electric shocks can cause weakness, spasms, shallow breathing, severe burns, rapid pulse, unconsciousness or even death. So, make sure that your child is very careful when he or she is dealing with electrical appliances. 

Grace is an expert associated with Blog4Safety.com which offers safety tips. If you want any information on Seaward PAT testers, feel free to browse through http://www.pattesters.co.uk/.

Thanks so much, Grace, for this information that is important for us adults, too! Pat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues

HOW TO IMPLEMENT WINDOWS SAFETY MEASURES (GUEST POST)

While other people are mastering in looking for the most fashionable trends in window installation, others are alarmed of the news of how great the number of people, mostly children, who fall out of their windows. According to a research, roughly about 5,000 children nearly every year in the United States experience this unfortunate incident, and that which 28 percent of that number, required a hospital stay, and another who approximately died. Yes, this is a heartbreaking event, but also a thriving consequence for people who yearned for fashion, rather than safety. There’s always been a dichotomy to this matter: Safety vs. Fashion – which one would you choose? 

Designs for windows often turn into a challenge or major investments. Let’s face it! If you continue to accent windows in favor of a complex idea, you’ll never get an assurance of your child or any member of your family’s safety. It is time to hold a little back in fashion, and muse more on the preventive precautions you can associate with your windows. In that way, you’ll meet both in half- ways. 

Here are some tips you could do to secure safety in your home:

1.       Remember that an open window is always an invitation to a child. You should check if all windows have safety devices installed in them and that they are in good working order. These devices come with new windows, but you may purchase the devices alone. These could be wireless window transmitters that send coded commands to the window mechanism for open and close activity or a barrier bar alarm switch which is a deterrent made for basement windows, apertures, chimneys, and all other openings where your child can reach, and potentially fall.

2.       Educate your children on the risks provided when leaning against window screens. Screens are designed for the exchange of air and to keep insects out, not children.

3.       You may put up window guards. These are screwed into the sides of your window frames and have bars to support them. They are sold in different sizes for various size windows and may adjust for width.

4.       Strategic landscaping may reduce the degree of injury acquired in the event of a fall. Shrubs can help cushion potential falls, thus, cutting down accidents.

5.       Finally, while you’re childproofing your windows, take a moment to secure the curtain pulls or blind cords that are out of reach. They may play with it, and in an event, may strangle themselves. 

These are just some of the many helpful means of keeping your home safe by modifying your windows function and design, and being a little more careful. Remember to take no chances with windows safety. Home security is a must. 

Author Bio: John Anderson, a Southeastern American, graduated from Tennessee State University. He specializes in home improvement and is now, the online content coordinator for securitysytemspro.com. You may follow him in Twitter @ JohnAnderson090.

General Safety Issues

TIPS TO MAKE YOUR KITCHEN SAFE (Guest Post)

1 Comment

There are many reasons why people like to get their kitchens redecorated. Among them is child safety. Plenty of accidents happen in kitchens of homes, and homeowners want to take every possible precaution to ensure that their kids will remain safe in the area. After all, it’s one place that small children and toddlers are bound to end up in a house. If you’re looking to get your kitchen remodelled, following are a few tips you may consider. 

Child-proof locks must be used wisely 

All drawers and cabinets that contain sharp objects like scissors and knives, lighters and matches, medications, cleaning supplies, breakable objects like glass and heavy objects like cast iron skillets must have locks. Apart from keeping dangerous items locked in cabinets and drawers, it also serves as an idea to put hazardous items that aren’t used very frequently in drawers that are not in your child’s reach. 

Baby gates must be used to keep kids out 

Though toddlers and babies may be good to have around, but when you’re cooking, it is safer, and more practical to keep them away from the kitchen. For instance, when there are too many cooks, it is best forchildren to stay out of the area, as more people in the kitchen increases the chances of accidents. Moreover, there may be times when toddlers just make their way to the kitchen and find sharp or dangerous items to play with. The best way to keep them out is to install a baby gate that allows them to look on the other side and interact, but doesn’t let them get past into the thick of the action.  

If you’re busy cooking, and there’s no one to baby-sit, you may place the toddler in a playpen or a high chair inside the cooking area. Playpens and high chairs keep children contained and away from harm, while allowing them to be part of things inside the kitchen. 

Appliances must be used to practice child safety 

Appliances like the refrigerator can be locked using a child-proofing product. Devices that can keep stoves bolted into the wall and keep it from flipping over are also available in the market, in case the kid uses the door of the oven as a step. Small appliances that are not being used must be kept unplugged and the cords must be wrapped up and away from the kid’s reach. For the pots on the stove, make sure that their handles face inward. This is extremely important to ensure that the child doesn’t grab it and pull the pot, and the boiling liquid down onto him/herself. 

There is no doubt that kitchens are inviting and warm rooms in a home, but the fact that many an accident occur in the area cannot be overlooked. Cabinets must be locked, unsafe items must be put in high places and away from children’s reach, baby gates must be used to keep toddlers away from the hazards of the kitchen and appliances must be used to practice child safety and then, you can be assured that your child will be out of harm’s way. 

Penny Cooper is an expert associated with Kingston Cabinets, manufacturers of white oak radiator covers based in London & Handforth (UK). Kingston Cabinets offer a beautiful collection of home radiator cabinets and radiator cover grilles, designed to add style and distinction to every home.

Thank you, Penny, for this good advice on child safety.  Many accidents happen in the kitchen, and most are preventable. pb

 

 

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

HOW ABOUT A SAFE, QUIET FOURTH OF JULY?

June and July are slated as “National Fireworks Safety Month”; however, there are probably many “eager beavers” out there that are already stocking up on fireworks.  Because of drought conditions in many parts of the country, fireworks will be banned.   Please observe warnings from county/city officials. 

Judy Comoletti, National Fire Prevention Agency’s Division Manager of Public Education, states: “Fireworks are dangerous and unpredictable, especially in the hands of amateurs.  The few seconds of pleasure those fireworks may bring are not worth risking injury, permanent scarring, or even death.”  Wooded areas, homes, and even automobiles have become engulfed in flames because of fireworks.  (Haven’t we had enough wildfires already?)  Fireworks-related fires have typically caused at least $20 million in property loss each year for recent years.  Bottle rockets or other types of rockets are some of the main causes of structure fire property loss. 

Dr. John Hall, NFPA’s Division Manager of Fire Analysis and Research says, “when things go wrong with fireworks, they go very wrong, very fast, far faster than any fire protective provisions can reliably respond.”  On the average, more than 8,000 Americans spend part of the July 4th in emergency rooms because of fireworks injuries.  Contusions, lacerations and foreign bodies in the eye, in addition to permanent loss of vision are just part of the injuries caused by fireworks.  However, 1,600 eye injuries tells us that the sight of shooting off fireworks for a few minutes’ thrill is not worth gambling on your vision, or hurting any other part of the body.

 Fireworks must be treated with respect, if you plan to shoot them off.  Read all the warning labels and then use common sense.  As we said earlier, if there is a burn ban, forget it.   If you should see someone misusing fireworks, stop them.  Do not let children under 12 handle sparklers.  Fireworks and alcohol don’t mix; have a “designated shooter.” 

Most people do not want to risk losing a home that they have worked their life for by playing around with fireworks.  Public fireworks displays are one of the safest alternatives to using fireworks on the Fourth of July.  Conducted by trained professionals, these displays are the safest and smartest fireworks alternative for anyone, because they are established under controlled settings and regulations.  After these displays or any other time, children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over, because they could discharge by still being active.  Children should always tell an adult if they find this type of fireworks. 

Facts worth repeating (in case they haven’t all been mentioned):

  •          More fires are reported in the U.S. on July 4th than any other day of the year, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires, more than any other cause of fire.
  •          In 2009, fireworks caused an estimated 18,000  reported fires, including 1,300 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires.  These fires resulted in no reported civilian deaths, 30 civilian injuries, and $38 million in direct property damage.
  •          In 2009, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,800 for fireworks related injuries; 53% of 2009 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 42% were to the head.
  •          The risk of fireworks injuries was highest for children ages 10-14, with more than twice the risk for the general population.
  •          Few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment, and  possibly death, that could result. 
  •          Amateur fireworks use endangers not only the users, but also bystanders and surrounding property and structures.
  •          If you are going to do fireworks at your home, have a water hose ready

We just recently learned that the decibel level of a typical fireworks display is 140.  It takes only 120 decibels to bring on noise-induced hearing loss, according to the Ntional institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.  Be sure this July 4th, make sure freedom is the only thing ringing by enjoying the patriotic pyrotechnics from at least 1,000 feet (about three football fields) away from the launch site.  If you have to be closer, how about investing in hearing protection earplugs?

We certainly aren’t trying to “dampen” your holiday spirit!  Countries all over the world have celebrations that include fireworks.  Congratulations to our friends in England, who will be hosting this year’s Olympics!  We feel sure we’ll see plenty of fireworks during their festivities.  Good luck to all participants!  Represent your country to the best of your ability, and if you are an American, start the month off right by celebrating wisely.  Happy Birthday, U.S.A.!

 

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

SUMMER SAFETY ALERT – FOLLOW WATER SAFETY GUIDELINES (Guest Post)

With the official beginning of Summer being tomorrow, June 20th, this post sent to us by Carrie Dotson, of  is most appropriate.  There are many little ones splashing in pools everywhere, so it’s very important that they are properly supervised.  Here is some advice from Carrie: 

With the summer months here, many nannies and children will spend time in and around water.  For this reason, it’s important that parents take precautions when choosing who their children swim with.

International Nanny Association recently released the following recommendation:

INA recommends that children are only to be taken swimming by a nanny if she is a lifeguard, if she has successfully completed a credible water safety and rescue course, or if there is a lifeguard present.

INA recommends that any child care provider who works in a home where there is a large body of water present be properly trained in water safety and rescue.  

While to some the recommendation may seem overboard, the 2010 drowning death of a Long Island toddler and nanny in a swimming pool  and the death of a nanny who did not know how to swim but jumped in the water to rescue her charge serve as reminders that when in and around water, it is essential that the caregiver be a strong  swimmer who is comfortable around water.

If a nanny is required or encouraged to take the children in and around water, it is important that the caregiver have the skills and confidence necessary to safely supervise the children in her care.

As an INA member, we support INA’s recommendations. In addition, we recommend that when looking for a nanny, parents:

  • Disclose if water play or swimming will be encouraged or required.
  • Ask if the nanny has lifeguard or water safety and rescue training.
  • Ask for proof of current CPR and first aid certification.
  • Ask if the nanny is comfortable around water.
  • Inquire as to the nanny’s swimming ability.
  • Require the nanny to obtain life guard certification or to take a water safety and rescue course if supervising the children in and around water will be part of her duties and responsibilities. Parents may wish to contribute to or cover the cost of this training should they require it.

The warm, summer months are ideal for playing in and around water. Before allowing your child to enjoy water activities with her caregiver, be sure she is qualified to supervise her properly and save her from drowning, should the need arise.

Parents who don’t employ nannys should always be vigilant about times that their little ones are in the pool.  Public pools are very loud and active, so it’s difficult for lifeguards to see every movement.  Private pools should be fenced in order to keep children from being tempted to dive in unannounced.  Have a safe and fun summer! pb

 

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

TEN RULES TO AVOID DOMESTIC ACCIDENTS – GUEST POST

10 Rules to Avoid Domestic Accidents

Domestic accidents are an integral part of our lives and one cannot ignore them completely. Especially when you have small children in your house and a lot of clutter as well, you must expect some form of contingencies in your house. The best way to prevent such accidents is to exercise caution where you can. Many times, adults too fall victim to domestic accidents. Besides implementing appropriate steps to avoid such accidents, also maintain a complete first aid box to provide immediate medical attention to the person.

In this article we will tell you 10 rules to avoid domestic accidents so your loved ones are safe:

1. Avoid Too Much Clutter at Home

The more your house is cluttered, the greater are the chances that anyone could face contingencies. This happens because things are not organized and are thus placed at the wrong places. For example, scissors on your bed or over your sofa can be equally dangerous for both children and adults.

2. Keep Dangerous Items Out Of Reach of Children

Dangerous items include sharp items, glass items, cleaners, chemicals, blades, sharp tools, match boxes etc. Children are not aware of the consequences of the wrong use of these items and your absence can be very dangerous.

3. Keep the Garage Closed At All Times

Garages should be kept closed at all times of the day when no one’s around since it has equipment, tools, flammable liquid and maybe chemicals that can be dangerous for any one including adults who do not know the correct usage of such things.

4. Ensure the Pool Area Is Fenced

This is really important when you have small children in your house. Install fences so that even if your child strolls around, there is no danger of him/her drowning in the pool.

5. Keep Away Sharp Objects in the Kitchen Out Of Reach

Children make their way inside kitchens very easily and you cannot shun them always, instead keep away sharp objects away and do not leave them on counter-tops and tables.

6. Never Let Your Children Come Near the Gas Oven or Hold Knobs

Gas ovens alone account for a high number of domestic accidents. Keep your child away from gas ovens and gas knobs. Tell them it’s very dangerous right away so they do not come into contact with them even if you are away.

7. Keep Glass Bottles, Frames and Mirrors at Safe Places

Take off even slightly scratched glass from your coffee table, dining table, picture frames etc. These can be equally dangerous for both adults and children.

8. Arrange Your Glass Furniture and Decoration Pieces Wisely

Arrange glass furniture and decoration pieces wisely as anyone might knock over them. Avoid placing heavy glass at low levels in smaller settings.

9. Do Not Leave Your Children Alone In Bathrooms

Children love playing with water and everyone else does too, but doing so in a bathtub in the bathroom can be fatal as well!

10. Keep Your Store Room Locked Away

Store rooms are hardly ever very clean and organized. Mostly, people keep them full of old furniture, and things that can be potentially harmful in storerooms. A storeroom full of such items is surely a great threat for anyone.

 

Andrew works in the healthcare industry distributing daily living aids and bathroom aids. As part of his job, Andrew has gained experience on the risk of domestic accidents and how to avoid then.  (We at Blog4Safety appreciate Andrew’s advice on avoiding accidents in our homes. 

Fall Safety, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

NATIONAL WINDOW SAFETY WEEK APRIL 1 – 7

There are so many health and safety observations for the month of April, it will keep us busy to describe them all.  April 1-7 is National Window Safety Week, sponsored by the National Safety Council.  The Window Safety Task Force of the NSC reminds parents that windows play a vital role in our homes, but they can also pose a risk of a fall in the home if the appropriate safety measures are not taken.   Fires and falls of all kinds are among the leading causes of injury and death in young children.  Children may climb up on furniture to reach the window, and fall out.  It is important that when windows are kept open for ventilation, such as these pretty spring days, there’s no furniture close by that they can access a window.  One study revealed that more than 5,000 kids fall out of windows every year, suffering injuries that can be severe. 

The Screen Manufacturers Association (SMA) has spearheaded industry and consumer-oriented programs dealing with screen safety issues.  SMA’s “Kids Can’t Fly” programs have gained national recognition in promoting the concept that screens are designed to furnish ventilation and keep insects out – they are not designed to keep small children in!   Children should also be taught not to play near open windows or around patio doors.  A fall through a glass door can cause a serious injury, or be fatal. 

Windows also play a vital role in home safety.  They serve as a secondary escape route in the event of a fire or other emergency.  Legislators throughout the United States have mandated building codes requiring specific windows be designated as points of escape.  The size and placement of windows designated  for escape in a residence are also governed by building codes.  The ability to easily open widows and remove insect screens without special knowledge or tools is critical to safely escaping through a window.  Many persons have died in their own burning homes, because of sealing their windows shut to prevent break-ins or worse, in dangerous neighborhoods.  This is a tragedy, when people’s safety is so threatened.  If you need more security for your home, call your local fire department or building code official to determine proper window guard placement, such as security bars, grilles or grates, that have a functioning release mechanism. 

Plan a strategic window in each sleeping and living area that will meet escape and rescue requirements.  Plant shrubs or grass beneath the windows, that could furnish a more cushioned landing space, just in case.  Every family should have an emergency escape plan.  Teach your children that a window can save their life in the event of a fire.  Practice this plan regularly.  They are taught things about fire safety at school, as well, but if you prepare them for action at home, they will understand the importance of exiting the house the right way. 

It’s always a good idea to have a first aid kit handy in every home.  Keep it stocked with the right supplies for every scenario, from scrapes and cuts to over-the-counter medications.  Remember, keep your windows locked when you shut them.  Don’t invite trouble.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

COMMON HOUSEHOLD POISONS – A MEDICAL DANGER GUIDE

Guest Blog

Note: We received the following published article that was submitted by one of our readers, hoping to help spread the word about harmful products that exist in our homes.  This should help us think about ways we can protect our children and grandchildren: “Medical Danger Guide: Common Household Poisons.”   

There are harmful chemical substances in every home today. Hence, it is important for parents to be careful with the way they keep household items. Poisons from household chemicals can become a threat to life when consumed or inhaled. Sometimes, this can lead to death, brain disorder and other serious issues. Most homes have more than fifty products that contain poisonous substances. It is therefore the responsibility of parents to know these products and keep them away from the kids. This can be done more effectively by packaging the products with materials that are very difficult for children to destroy.

If you know someone who has just inhaled or consumed poison, please call the US department of health and human services on this hotline: 1-800-222-1222.

Some of the common household poisons are listed below:

  • Iron Supplement– A lot of people think it is harmless to take iron supplements. Unfortunately, this can cause death among children if they take up to five pills at once.
  • Batteries– Old batteries possess harmful chemicals such as lead, acid, cadmium and mercury. These chemicals can cause death when taken through the mouth.
  • Art and Crafts Supplies– There are several art and crafts items that are dangerous to children. These items include: paints, glue, and ink. This means that parents should endeavor to purchase only those that are considered to be safe for children.
  • Baby Oils– A mouthful of baby oil can cause lung inflammation. Lung inflammation can also be caused by consuming bath oils, makeup removers and massage oils.
  • Toothpaste– Toothpastes are dangerous because they contain a harmful chemical substance known as fluoride. Consumption of fluoride can lead to poisoning and death. Therefore, children should be supervised while brushing their teeth and also educated on the need to avoid swallowing the toothpaste.
  • Thermometers and Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs– Thermometers and compact fluorescent lightbulbs are made of mercury. They should be kept out of the reach of children because they can release mercury if broken. Mercury can cause health problems such as kidney damage and disorders of the nervous and digestive systems.
  • Bleach– High concentration of bleach is harmful to the skin and eyes. Inhaling bleach can also cause respiratory diseases.
  • Paints and Solvents– There are numerous paints and solvents that are made of perchloroethylene. Perchloroethylene can cause liver problems, kidney damage, loss of memory, headache, dizziness and fatigue.
  • Pesticides– Pesticides are made of dangerous chemicals such as organophosphates. When exposed to high concentrations, pesticides can lead to death of children and pets.
  • Perfumes and Colognes– Alcohol is used in the production of several perfumes and colognes available on the market. Alcohol is a dangerous chemical that is responsible for several health problems today.

Children are more prone to these household chemicals because they cannot read labels and determine what is safe (or unsafe) for them. As a result, parents are advised to hide these items by employing the following tips:

  • Understand the information on the label to know how to use the product.
  • Products with harmful chemicals should be locked up in a cabinet to prevent children from having them.
  • Parents should attend to household poisons before attending to other important issues.
  • Household products should be kept safely after using them.
  • Children should not be allowed to come around when harmful products are being used.
  • Since mixing different chemical products can also produce harmful substances, it is advisable to do so only when it is recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Medicines and health supplements should not be placed in reach of children.
  • Even if there is a need to take medicine, it is advisable to do so when the children are not watching. This is because they may want to take the medicines when they are alone.
  • Explain what medications actually mean to children.
  • Purchase products that are packaged with child-resistant materials.

We always thank our readers for sharing information that helps keep our youngsters safe. 

General Safety Issues

A UNIQUE WAY TO KEEP YOUR “WANDERING” CHILDREN SAFE

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If anyone has ever lost his/her child in a mall, amusement park, or even the grocery store, it’s a terrible experience!  They can disappear in the blink of an eye.  When our son was four years old, a group of us had gone to Six Flags over Texas.  He had moved up to watch a “Texas Shootout”, and when the crown dispersed, he just left with the flow of the crowd.  Even though we thought we could see where he was, it’s amazing how fast that happened.  We frantically searched for him, and were directed by a security guard to a building called, “Lost Parents”.  There he was,  his eyes as big as saucers, as he sat there waiting.  We were very lucky.  My main concern was that he would fall into one of the many water areas; had it been now, I would have worried more about child predators.  

Now, parents have several options to help them keep up with and find their children.  Michele Welsh, a mother of three invented a temporary tattoo that does the talking for them – Safety Tat.  She created these tattoos for peace of mind, and to aid in help in locating them when they disappear before your very eyes.  You can write your cell number and any other information on them; or customize them.  They go on and off easily, and last about two weeks.  Another great feature is that there are temporary tats for children with allergies, or other health problems that other adults should know about. 

We want to share some lost child stats and facts from Family Safety Expert, Alyssa Dver, Founder of the Center to Prevent Lost Children:

  • Over 2,000 U.S. kids get lost each day.
  • Less than 10% are reported to any authority.
  • 90% of families will experience losing a child in a public place.  20% have lost a child more than once.
  • Parents rank losing a child 5 times more concerning to them than terrorism and 3 times more concerning than abduction.
  • Kids get lost more often, (45%)  in malls and stores.
  • 27% of families that visit an amusement park lose a child while they are there.  That’s almost 1 in 3!
  • Only 9% of parents put some form of safe ID on their children.
  • 76% of parents want to know what to do to prevent a child from getting lost.
  • 95% of lost children will forever remember the trauma of getting lost. 

Here are five ways Parents Magazine gives you some safety tips when taking your kids to theme parks: 

  1. Have a game plan.  Talk to your family about what to do if someone gets lost: Stay put, or find a park worker or another mom with kids.  Plan this before you go.
  2. Bring a family photo.  Take one with your cell phone the day of the trip.  This makes it easier for security to find your child.  Take digital snaps of each of your kids right before you leave, so everyone knows what they are wearing.
  3. Tattoo your child!
  4. Check the map first.  Start the day off by locating the park’s information centers so you can point them out to your children or get to them quickly in case of an emergency.  Also, look for the first-aid and baby-care centers.
  5. Be stroller-savvy.  Put something that will distinguish yours from all the others, like tying a balloon or a bright ribbon on it.  This is especially important if you rent one at the park, as they are all identical. 

Also, you have probably noticed groups wearing identical T-shirts, usually customized with a particular logo.  This is another helpful way to spot your group.  FYI: these tattoos are regulated by the FDA and comply with FDA guidelines.  Temporary tattoos offer a good solution to identifying your child, should he/she become lost in a large setting.  It seems this would be perfect for airports, parks, field trips, malls, or even the first day of school, especially for those children who have allergies or other health issues. 

Source: SafetyTat, My Precious Kid

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

NEVER LEAVE A CHILD UNATTENDED IN A CAR!

Every summer, it is necessary to remind busy parents to never leave their child in a vehicle that is unattended, even for one minute to run into a store.  In addition to child predators lurking, the temperature of cars increases very quickly.  Childrens’ respiratory and circulatory systems do not adapt the same as an adult.  Approximately 38 children die each year from heat stroke after being left in hot cars.  The average number of child vehicular heat stroke deaths per year since 1998 are 37 – that’s one every 10 days!

Parents think that they or their child’s caregiver would never forget about that little one in the back seat, but it happens.  Because of this hectic world, we sometimes have our minds on things that don’t amount to anything, rather than that little precious doll riding in the child carseat.  It’s been suggested by experts to place a stuffed animal in the child seat when the child isn’t in the car, then move it to the front seat to remind you of your passenger in the car seat.  Other suggestions are to place a briefcase or purse beside the child, to remind you when you reach for your purse or briefcase, you won’t forget the most important thing in the backseat- your child!

Because July tends to be the most deadly month for children to die in hot cars, it is our duty to tell you the symptoms of heatstroke.  Warning signs vary, but may include: red, hot, and moist or dry skin, no sweating, a strong, rapid pulse, or a slow, weak pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or acting strangely.  If you see a child alone in a car, call the police.  If they are in distress due to heat, get them out as quickly as possible.  Cool the child rapidly.  Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.  Sometimes children become trapped in a parked vehicle in their own garage or driveway.  Always lock the doors of your vehicle when you get home.  It’s a lot easier for them to figure out how to get inside the car, than to get out of it.  Inside temperatures can rise almost 20 degrees in a hot car within ten minutes.

Toddlers and children are also injured or killed by being backed over or run over from the front.  At least 50 of these types of accidents occur in the United States annually.  The predominant age of these victims is between 12 and 23 months.  Sixty per cent are run over by a truck, SUV, or van.  These are larger, longer, and higher vehicles, making it harder to see something so close to the ground.  Of course, vehicles that have rear cameras offer some assistance in seeing a child.  The sad fact is that the driver of these vehicles is usually a parent, relative, or close friend in seventy per cent of these tragedies.

Please do the same thing for your pets – don’t put a cat or dog in a car that you plan to leave, even for a few minutes.  They love you unconditionally and deserve your consideration.

This chart from Kids and Cars.org depicts the causes of fatalities of children in cars.  The oganization asks others to share this information with you in the hopes it will save lives.

fatalities-pie-chart

Sources: KidsandCars.org

Keeping Kids Safe: Inside and Out