Submitted by Lois E. Dewey, RN, BScN
Public Health Nurse
Canadian homes are full of products for kids, from cribs and car seats
to toys and clothes. However, many of these products – including those
passed down through families or sold second hand – are unsafe.
In
Canada, more than 75% of injury-related emergency room visits, among
children from birth to 4 years, are as a result of injuries that occur
at home.
Disposing of unsafe products is an effective way to reduce
the number of injuries to kids.
Last year, 13 local municipalities took part in a Health Unit
campaign designed to improve the safety of children. The campaign
included free
disposal of unsafe products and education on home safety. Parents
learned how to tell if the products were safe to use and received
instructions on how to safely dispose of articles.
How to Dispose of Children's Products Safely

For more
information on product safety, contact the
Health Unit website or
call 1-800-660-5853.