Childhood Safety

Leaving toys and other objects on the floor can create tripping hazards for young children. It is important to keep floors clear of clutter to prevent falls.

Children should start wearing a bicycle helmet as soon as they start riding a bicycle, typically around 1 year old. Helmets help protect children from head injuries in the event of a fall.

Leaving young children unsupervised near water is a major risk factor for drowning. Children should always be supervised by an adult when they are near water, even if they know how to swim.

The recommended temperature for a child's bathwater is 100°F (38°C). Water that is too hot can burn a child's skin, while water that is too cold can make them uncomfortable.

Leaving medications and household chemicals on the counter is a major risk factor for poisoning in young children. These items should always be kept out of reach of children, either in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.

Children should start using a car seat from birth. Car seats help protect children from injury in the event of a car accident.

Leaving hot food and drinks unattended is a major risk factor for burns in young children. Hot food and drinks should always be kept out of reach of children, either on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet.

Children should start using a booster seat in a car when they reach 4 years old or 40 pounds. Booster seats help position the child correctly in the car seat and reduce the risk of injury in the event of a car accident.

Leaving windows open for ventilation is a major risk factor for falls from windows. Windows should always be kept closed when children are in the room, or they should be installed with window guards or safety screens.

Children should start wearing a bike helmet as soon as they start riding a bike, typically around 1 year old. Helmets help protect children from head injuries in the event of a fall.

Leaving small objects within reach of children is a major risk factor for choking. Small objects should always be kept out of reach of children, either in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.

Children should start using a seat belt in a car when they reach 4 years old or 40 pounds. Seat belts help protect children from injury in the event of a car accident.

Leaving electrical appliances plugged in and turned on is a major risk factor for electrical shocks in young children. Electrical appliances should always be unplugged and turned off when they are not in use.

Children should start learning how to use a fire extinguisher at around 12 years old. This is the age when they are typically old enough to understand the instructions and to be able to use the fire extinguisher safely.

Leaving toys and other objects on the floor can create tripping hazards for young children. It is important to keep floors clear of clutter to prevent falls.