Child Safety (Child-Proofing)

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death and disability for Canadian children. Most injuries to young children happen at home although injuries can happen anywhere. From birth to age 5, children are particularly vulnerable to injuries in the home (Safer Homes For Children, Safe Kids Canada, 2006.)

Injuries in children are usually the result of falls, burns, choking, poisoning, strangulation or drowning. Safer Homes For Children, Safe Kids Canada, 2006.

Injuries in children are related to the child’s stage of development.

Keeping children safe at home

• Living Room: Secure heavy furniture to the wall such as televisions or bookcases.
• Kitchen: Turn pot handles in. Keep knives and sharp utensils out of reach.
• Bathroom: Lock all cabinets containing drugs, shampoo, etc. Turn water temperature to 49’C.
• Stairs: Install gates at top and bottom.
• Balconies: Do not leave children alone on balconies. Remove chairs, tables, flower pots that they can climb on.
• Basement and Garage: Keep tools, paints, insecticides, and other poisons out of reach.

Keeping children safe outside their home

• Wear a helmet for wheeled activities.
• Install car/booster seat properly in back of vehicle.
• Ensure playground equipment is well anchored and play areas have soft surfaces (wood chips, pea gravel or sand).
• Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) around water.
• Teach children to swim.

Services related to this information:

811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555