By Dave Snow of Non-Slip Services

Many of us think of slip and fall accidents as something that happens primarily to the elderly. But according to the Centers for Disease Control, aside from the elderly, children aged 0 to 4 years and older teens, ages 15 to 19, are most at risk for head injury. Most of these injuries are the result of a fall. Every day, approximately 8,000 children are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries.

But as any parent can tell you, protecting a child from falling is easier said than done. Kids are naturally curious and like adventure, but they lack experience, a combination that does not always lead to good decision making. Constant supervision of a newborn is tough enough but once into the toddler stage, watch out! The job gets even tougher when multiple children of different ages are involved. The good news is that there are many steps you can take to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of slip and fall accidents for your children.

Mayo Clinic recommends taking basic precautions in these “hot spots” that can help prevent falls at home:

Windows
Most children 5 years old and younger can fit through a 6-inch opening. To prevent falls from windows, install a stop that prevents windows from opening more the 4 inches. Don’t rely on a screen to prevent falls.

Stairs
Install safety gates at the top and bottom of staircases. Put doorknob covers on doors that lead to staircases. Don’t leave clutter on stairs.

Porches, Decks and Balconies
Don’t let a child play unattended on a balcony or deck, even if there are railings. Consider installing lower railings to prevent young ones from falling.

Baby Furniture and Equipment
Use preinstalled safety straps on a changing table or highchair. Select a highchair that has a wide base that makes slipping less likely.

Baby Walkers
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not using baby walkers, which can lead to falls. Consider alternatives such as a stationary walker center or activity center.

Bathtubs
Use a bathmat to lower the risk of falls and mop up wet floors promptly.

Beds
Install safety rails on beds for toddlers. Bunk bed should only be for children six or older. Safety rails on bunk beds should be on both sides of the bed and gaps between rails should be 4 inches or less. Use a nightlight near the bunk bed stairs or ladder for safe use at night.

Nightlights
Use a nightlight in your child’s bedroom, the bathroom and hallways to prevent falls at night.

Pools
Finally, in Arizona many kids splash around in a backyard pool, which can create hazards of its own. Be aware of areas that become slippery when wet around the pool and patio and take steps to lessen the danger of slipping and falling.

Taking these precautions can protect you and your little ones in the future.

Non-Slip Services specializes in helping businesses and individuals reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents due to wet and slippery surfaces. Their durable, long-lasting, anti-slip floor treatments and coatings increases the friction of wet surfaces, while not altering the surface’s appearance. Nonslipsurfacesaz.com