Keep Your Kids Close to Keep them Safe

Parents need to know that most injuries to young children occur in the home. Falls, poisonings and burns were the three leading causes of injuries to children treated at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. From 1997-2001, over 10,000 children were treated at CHEO for injuries that happened in the home during that period.

Using safety equipment like baby gates and electrical outlet covers in your home is a good start, but keeping children close is the best way to keep them safe. It allows time to react and prevent an injury.

Easy Tips to Keep Your Child Injury-Free:

• Be Real: Childcare is a full time job that requires you to be alert and responsible. Expect that some of your chores will not be done.

• Simplify: Make your list short.

• Get Help: Hire a sitter or trade babysitting time.

For more information about keeping your child safe, visit Children - Safety Checklist

Erin McLean, RN, BScN, Public Health Nurse

From 1997-2001, over 10,000 children were treated at CHEO for injuries that happened in the home during that period.