go back

Preventing falls at home

If you are at home, you can take some measures to prevent your kid from getting hurt by simply following these tips:

1. Windows. Install window guards that cover the lower part of the window and note that most children, 5 years old and younger can fit through a 15 cm opening so make sure to install a stop that prevents the window from opening more than 10 cm. Try to remove the chairs and furniture from under the windows and supervise your child if he/she is playing around in a risky area in the house.
2. Stairs. Install safety gates at the top and bottom of staircases.
3. Porches and balconies. Always close and lock doors and windows that lead to the balcony and never leave a child play unattended on a balcony, porch or fire escape even if there are railings.
4. Baby furniture and equipment. Safety straps on a changing table or highchair can be really helpful in preventing a child’s accident. Don't leave a child unattended on a changing table or in a highchair.
5. Beds. Install safety rails on beds for toddlers. For older kids, safety rails on bunk beds should be on both sides of the bed, and gaps between rails should be of 10 cm or less. Use a nightlight near the bunk bed stairs or ladder for safe use at night.
6. Other furniture.  Keep supervising your child in the room and try placing bumpers or guards on sharp corners of furniture to protect your toddler if he falls.
7. Bathtubs. Use a nonslip bathmat in tubs to lower the risk of falls and clean up wet floors promptly, and most importantly, never leave your child without supervision.

Fall safety for kids on the go

Here are some safety measures to consider when you are out with your toddler:

1. Strollers. When your toddler is in the stroller, always use the safety harness and avoid tipping the stroller, and most importantly, don't hang bags from the handles.
2. Shopping carts. When you are shopping, put your child in the designated seat and not in the basket or stand in the cart or hang from the sides. And of course, do not forget to use the safety belt.
3. Playgrounds. Choose the playgrounds which have shock-absorbing surfaces, such as wood chips, mulch, rubber or sand because if your child falls on cement, packed dirt and turf are more likely to result in injuries.
4. Helmets and other protective gear. Equip your child with a helmet and guards for the wrists, elbows and knees if he is biking, riding a scooter or skating.
5. Watch for slippery surfaces. Tell your child to stay away from wet (like running near swimming pools) dark and paved areas with caution in cold temperatures. Make sure your child wears shoes or boots with traction in bad weather ¹

Dr. Samir Matar

Pediatrician

¹https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20046124#:~:text=Other%20prevention%20strategies%20include%20opening,top%20and%20bottom%20of%20staircases.