Of all childhood injuries, falls are the leading cause of hospitalizations and emergency department visits. The home is a minefield of potentially dangerous falls for children of all ages.

Prevent Falls In Your Home

• Don't leave babies alone on beds, changing tables, or sofas.
• Always strap children into highchairs and strollers.
• Keep stairs well lit and clear of clutter. Don't let children play on stairs.
• Use safety gates if there are infants and toddlers in your home. At the top of the stairs, attach the gate to a wall. Avoid accordion gates with large openings. A child's neck can be trapped in the openings.
• Don't let children play alone on a fire escape, high porch, or balcony.
• Fix loose railings or boards. If you rent, ask the landlord to make these repairs.
• Don't rely on screens to prevent falls. Screens are made to keep bugs out, but are not strong enough to keep children in.
• Move chairs and other furniture away from windows to discourage young climbers.
• Unguarded windows opened only five inches pose a danger to children under age 10. In some cities, landlords are required by law to place window guards in apartments where children live.

Some questions to ask yourself:

• Check walkways and thoroughfares to make sure furniture is well clear and things are not left on the floor.
• Watch for carpet or lino ends that turn up, or loose and worn floor coverings.
• Do interior steps have firm-fitting carpet or slip-proof strips?
• Do floors become slippery in showers and in other wet areas?
• Are ladders and other climbing objects left where children can reach them?
• Do raised verandahs, stairs and steps have safe handrails to prevent falls?
• Are brooms, rakes, vacuum cleaners, tools and equipment put away after use?