Many parents believe they are doing all they can to keep their kids safe, but with safety recommendations and standards always changing, it can be hard to keep up with what’s safe and what’s not. Here we’ve gathered 100 of the most important safety rules parents should follow to keep their kids safe and out of danger’s path.
In the House
While there’s no replacement for supervision, there are things you can do to decrease the number of risks that contribute to accidents and injuries in your home. Follow these rules to increase your child’s safety while at home.
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Turn the water temperature down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot water can scald children. By turning the water temperature thermostat down you can prevent scalds and burns
Store medications properly. Store medications out of reach and sight to prevent accidental ingestions
Use the right safety gates. While pressure mounted gates may work fine to keep kids confined to a room, they have no place at the top of stairs
Safety proof windows. Children needlessly fall out of windows each year. Be sure to add window guards or locks to your windows to be sure your child isn’t one of them
Choose appropriate toys. Choose age-appropriate toys to reduce the risk of injury to your child.
Opt for a pet that is good with kids. When considering a family pet, you’ll want to be sure to select a pet whose temperament makes it kid-friendly.
Clean toys without harsh chemicals. Clean children’s toys naturally to prevent the spread of germs and decrease risks associated with toxic cleaners.
Store cleaners away from kids. Store toxic chemicals and cleaners out of the reach and sight of children to prevent accidental poisoning and chemical burns
Be sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. The proper placement of working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors can alert family members of a fire and prevent children from experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning
There is still time to make plans for late summer vacations! While we certainly don’t want to rain on your parade, if hiking or camping is included in your planned activities, here are a few ideas that will help you map out a successful trip:
HIKING or CAMPING:
Whether you are a new or seasoned hiker, it pays to play it safe:
Always tell friends or family where you plan to hike/camp.
Take plenty of water, snacks and a cell phone.
If you are a new hiker, stay in familiar areas; it ‘s too easy to drift into unknown places.
In State Parks, check in with Rangers to let them know how long you plan to stay.
Don’t mess with wildlife! Remember, they are wild animals, many protecting their young.
If camping is new to you, take shorter trips before embarking on a longer outing.
Wear layered clothing, easy to remove/add to be ready for weather changes.
This is the time of year when theme and amusements parks are packed with kids and their parents or grandparents. While they are anticipating going to magical and fun activities, it’s a good idea to plan how you can make it a safe experience for the whole group.
Here are some tips that should help:
If you are going to a large theme park, check a map for the locations of first aid stations. It’s a big help if you know where to go for assistance, should there be an accident.
Carry Benadryl or some type of allergy medication in case of food or other allergies.
Accompany small children to the restroom. They get to a certain age that they think they can go alone, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Be sure you are well-hydrated two to three days before your trip. Continue drinking more water and less sugary drinks during the park visits.
It helps to take short breaks. Don’t push all day long to be sure you see everything. A rest in the shade, or even a return to your hotel for a while will make the whole group less stressed.
Take plenty of sunscreen, hand sanitizer, or wipes. Wear sunglasses, hats/visors and comfortable shoes. It is also a good idea to wear socks and running/walking shoes rather than sandals.
Dress your kids in brightly colored clothing, so you can easily spot them, should you become separated. Having just returned from a four-day theme park trip, I noticed several groups were wearing identical T-shirts, which made it easier for them to find each other.
Cell phones are a great way for families to communicate with their teenagers who want to do their thing, while moms and dads take the little ones to ride or see shows.
If the rides have restrictions, such as height limits, don’t try to put your child on something they are too small for. If you have health problems such as high blood pressure, pay attention to the warnings posted at the high-speed rides.
Most park attendants are there to ensure their visitors have a safe and fun experience. If you have questions or need assistance, they will be happy to help you. These parks have safety policies and procedures; however, if you have had any unsafe experiences, be sure to let them know.
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