Prevention of domestic accidents in children: protect your little ones every day

1- The main types of domestic accidents in children

Domestic accidents can take many forms. Here are some of the most common, along with tips to prevent them:

A. Falls
Falls are one of the most frequent domestic accidents among young children, especially when they begin to walk or climb.
Prevention measures:

• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.

• Use non-slip rugs in the bathroom and play areas.

• Never leave a baby unattended on a changing table or couch, even for a moment.

• Ensure windows are equipped with locks or guards to prevent children from opening them easily.

B. Burns
Children can get burned by hot water, household appliances, or chemicals.
Prevention measures:
a. Keep children away from the kitchen while cooking.
b. Use stove guards and cook with pots on the back burners.
c. Set your water heater to ensure the water temperature does not exceed 50°C to prevent bath burns.
d. Store hot objects (irons, kettles) out of children’s reach.

C. Poisoning
Household products, medications, and some plants can be toxic to children if accidentally ingested.
Prevention measures:
a. Store chemicals (detergents, cleaners, etc.) in locked or high cabinets.
b. Keep medications in a secure cabinet and use childproof containers.
c. Identify and remove toxic plants that could be dangerous if chewed or ingested by children.
d. Teach your child not to touch or taste substances they do not recognize.

D. Choking and suffocation
Young children explore the world by putting objects in their mouths, exposing them to the risk of choking or suffocation.
Prevention measures:
a. Keep small objects (coins, small toys, buttons) out of children’s reach.
b. Supervise children while eating and avoid risky foods like whole grapes, sausage pieces, or nuts.
c. Avoid using pillows, heavy blankets, or stuffed toys in an infant’s bed to prevent suffocation.

E. Electrocution
Electrical outlets and cables can pose serious dangers to children.
Prevention measures:
a. Install outlet covers on all accessible outlets.
b. Hide electrical cables behind furniture and ensure they are not hanging within reach.
c. Avoid leaving appliances plugged in when not in use.

F. Drowning
Drowning can happen very quickly, even in a small amount of water.
Prevention measures:
d. Never leave a child unsupervised in or near water, whether in the bathtub, a pool, or a bucket of water.
e. Use safety covers for pools and install safety barriers around water areas.
f. Immediately empty buckets, basins, and other containers after use.

2- The role of parents in preventing domestic accidents

Domestic accidents can happen in a matter of seconds, which is why parents’ vigilance is essential, especially with young children who explore their environment without understanding the dangers. Here are some tips to help you make your home safer:

• Constantly monitor your child when they explore a new area of the house.

• Educate your children, as soon as they are old enough, about the dangers to avoid.

• Adapt your home to your child’s age by installing safety devices (gates, outlet covers, etc.).

• Regularly review high-risk areas of your home, especially as your child reaches new milestones (crawling, walking, climbing).

3- The role of the Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso

At the Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso, we understand parents' concerns about their children’s safety at home. Our doctors are here to support and advise you on best practices for preventing domestic accidents. During consultations, we take the time to inform parents about the risks associated with each stage of their child’s development and how to effectively childproof their home.
We also encourage parents to ask any questions they may have about home safety and to contact us in the event of an accident, even a minor one, so we can assess the child's health and provide the appropriate care.

Conclusion

Preventing domestic accidents is a shared responsibility between parents and healthcare professionals. By taking simple but effective measures, you can significantly reduce the risks your child faces at home. The Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso is here to support you in this effort and help ensure your children’s safety and well-being every day.