Childhood Accidents and Safety

The good news is that childhood fatalities have been on the decline since the late 1980's. The bad news is that childhood accidents are still the leading cause of death among young children. Today, as in earlier centuries, some common accidents haven't changed while others have decreased or disappeared altogether. When one threat is removed, another takes it's place.

In earlier times fires were a major threat to young children, as well as accidents involving animals especially livestock. Falls have been a continuous cause of childhood injuries and deaths, most of which occurred at home. Many accidents happened when children accompanied their parents to the fields to help with the work. Early machinery lacked very many safety features and contributed to many deaths involving both adults and children.

Many at home accidents could be prevented with the use of baby gates, proper supervision, posted emergency numbers, childproofing, and proper training of care givers. Parents can teach children good safety habits and make sure they know what to do in case of an emergency. Some of today's more common threats are burns, falls, head injuries, and poisonings. Young children put everything in their mouths so any hazardous materials or liquids should be kept well out of reach. Many outdoor activities can result in injuries but can't be prevented only prepared for. Biking, swimming, climbing, running and sports all carry a risk for injury but some accidents can be prevented and proof of that is in the decline of such accidents.

If an accident does occur, don't panic! A panicky parent equals a very frightened child. Know who to call and have emergency numbers handy. Protect young children from stairs and other dangerous areas. Teach them about hot things early on. Last but not least make sure any daycare giver is properly trained in child safety and CPR.

www.faqs.org/childhood/A-Ar/Accidents.html

www.parenting.com/Common/article.jsp