Most child injuries can be prevented. Parents and caregivers can play an important role in keeping children safe and creating safer spaces for them to grow and explore.
Learn How Injuries Occur as Children Grow & Develop
Children’s risk of injury changes as they grow. Understanding what to expect at each stage of development can help prevent injuries.
Young children (zero to four years old)
- are curious and want to explore their environment
- do not understand dangers
- are impulsive
- are still developing their coordination and physical abilities
- are not able to remember or follow safety
Older children (five to nine years old)
- can jump, balance and climb, but may not see the danger
- often think they can do more than they can
- take more risks, especially boys
- want to do what older children do even if their bodies aren’t ready
- need reminders about following safety rules
Create Safer Places for Children
Most injuries to young children occur in the home. You can make your home safer by identifying and reducing hazards.
- In your living space look for dangers from your child’s view. Get down on your knees and look for things they can reach, climb on or touch.
- Keep sharp objects, medications and cleaning products locked up and out of reach.
- Use safety devices like outlet covers, cupboard lock, and baby gates.
- Check that products and toys are safe and age appropriate.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor.
- Keep stairs and hallways clear of clutter.
- Place furniture away from windows and balcony railings.
- Install safety devices on windows and balcony doors so they do not open more than 10 cm.
- Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle. Heat can build up quickly and cause serious illness or death
- Make your home smoke free.
Home Safety
This Tips for Making Your Home Safer for Young Children brochure includes tips on how to prevent injuries in the home, as well as overall safety tips. It is available in the following languages:
Watch Children Closely
Supervision is one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries.
- Always watch young children when they are eating, playing or exploring.
- Always know where your children play and who is supervising them.
- Never leave your child alone near a window, balcony fire escape or any source of water, such as pools, bathtubs, sinks or toilets.
- Never leave your child alone on raised surfaces (change tables, countertops). Always keep a hand on them.
- Keep medications, alcohol and cannabis locked and out of reach
- Avoid using alcohol, cannabis or other drugs when caring for your child.
Create & Follow Family Safety Rules
- When your child is able to understand, make family safety rules together (eg holding your hand when crossing the street or playing where an adult can see them.)
- Help your child understand why safety rules are important and need to be followed.
- Give your child reminders of what the safety rules are.
- Praise your child when they play safe and follow the rules.
- Your child learns by watching you; be a safety role model.
Learn About Common Childhood Injuries
- Children can get hurt during everyday activities, especially in and around the house.
- Learning about the most common causes of injury can help you take steps to prevent injuries before they happen.
Visit Parachute Canada to learn about common childhood injuries
