Preventing accidents
THERE is always the concern about how to make your toddler comfortable and safe at home, as the number of accidents happening inside the house can be even more alarming than those outdoors. These accidents can be anything from a scrape, prone to infection, to a severe burn.
Paediatricians will tell you that as babies start to toddle, they become more accident-prone, as they develop their motor skills. And so the incidence of scraped knees and terrible falls will be among the highest in the child’s life. Those in the two-year-old category would have become more mobile, and there is no sense of danger, as they seek to explore all there is around them. And since they can’t anticipate danger, it’s up to parents to do so for them.
That in mind, we scoured around for some tips for parents on preventing toddler accidents.
Burns
Because his/her skin is thinner, a child will be more easily burnt than an adult. Hot water scalds cause many burns in children. When giving your child a bath, turn his/her back to the pipes, so they can’t turn the hot water on themselves. Also, don’t allow your child to play in the kitchen. Hot foods can spill, and your child may innocently reach for pots and pans with hot items. Note that kitchen appliances and hot surfaces such as irons can still be hot enough to burn your children long after they have been turned off.
Choking
It is guinep season and many parents allow their toddlers to suck on the fruit. However, guineps should not be given to children. In fact, the selling or bringing of the product on the compound has been banned at the Bustamante Children’s Hospital, because of the many accidents caused. Paediatricians urge that children under eight should not be given guineps — even if halved — because of the choking hazard. Other foods that can cause choking are hot dogs, nuts, popcorn, grapes, dry peas and small hard candies. Foods should be cut into thin slices or small pieces.
Also note that some childhood toys can cause choking — beware of having marbles, beads, thumbtacks, balloons, coins and other small objects around small children.
Falls
Falls account for some of the most common causes of emergency department visits. By now, your toddler has discovered the exhilarating talent of climbing, so the stairways and furniture are a frequent challenge to him/her. Make sure that the doors to any dangerous areas are kept locked. Children should never be allowed to play on stairs, high porches, or balconies. Windows need to be closed and locked when children are around. Only open windows that a child cannot reach. Furniture or anything a child can climb onto should be kept away from the windows.
Poisonings
Your toddlers are inquisitive enough to open any drawer within their reach. They will also climb to discover what’s inside closed cupboards in the household. Then they may taste or swallow their newfound discoveries which will many times prove to be to their detriment. Therefore, all kerosene, bleach, insecticides and other dangerous substances must be kept out of their reach.
