Know the Facts:Unintentional falls are the leading
cause of nonfatal injuries among children. More than 2.3 million children 14
and under were treated in hospital emergency rooms for fall-related injuries
in 2002.
Each year, 15 children ages 14 and under die, and more than 200,000 are treated
in hospital emergency rooms for playground equipment-related injuries. Lack
of supervision is associated with 40% of playground injuries.
Safety Basics
Many playground injuries can be prevented with safe play rules. Here are some basic safe play rules for children to learn and practice:
- Take turns on playground equipment.
- Play gently - pushing and roughhousing can lead to falls.
- Never wear jackets with drawstrings, jewelry, or scarves around the neck. They can get caught on playground equipment.
Play areas should be covered with at least 12 inches of shredded mulch, wood chips, pea gravel, fine sand or covered with rubber or rubber-like material designed for use under playground materials. Dirt, grass and sand does not provide proper fall protection.
Keep stairs clear of toys and other items that could cause someone to trip. Teach children to hold the handrail when on stairs or escalators and always tie their shoelaces to avoid tripping over them.
Windows opened as little as five inches pose a danger to children under 10. Install window guards with quick release mechanisms that can be opened easily from the inside in case there is a fire.
Parents, looking for ways to teach your kids about these important messages - visit the Parents' Page!
Data Sources: National SAFE KIDS Campaign®
