- Published:
- Thursday 12 February 2015
Homes can pose many risks to child safety unless parents are on the ball and take action.
The Andrews Labor Government is launching Play it Safe at Home, a program to warn families about the dangers children can face when adults don’t take preventative action around the home.
Bunk beds, nursery furniture , pools, curtain and blinds cords, button batteries and trampolines are common in homes, but they can put children at risk of injury or tragic death.
Hospitals and childcare centres will distribute quick checklists to help hazard proof homes in a joint initiative by Consumer Affairs Victoria and Kidsafe.
Play it Safe at Home gives adults a step by step guide to identify the home hotspots so they can do something to make it safer for those who most need protection.
For more information about child safety around the home, visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au/productsafety.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs, Jane Garrett
“These resources come as the warmer days continue, with families likely to spend more time in the backyard, on trampolines and in the pool.”
“In Australia, more than 3000 kids hurt themselves on trampolines each year, and four kids a week end up in hospital with life-threatening injuries after consuming button batteries. The risks are real but preventable.”
“Play it Safe at Home offers parents and carers very practical and simple advice to minimise serious risks around the home.” Quotes attributable to CEO of Kidsafe Victoria, Melanie Courtney
“Children are naturally curious and unpredictable. It's up to us as parents to make sure we provide them with a home environment that is challenging, but safe from hazards which can cause serious injury.”