Falls

Fact:

• Falls can cause severe injuries for children. Falls are the leading cause for hospitalization in the 1-14 year age category. Falls occur in the home, playground, while enjoying wheeled activities and during sports and recreation. Falls in the home are highest in the 0-4 year age group, where falls on the playground tend to occur most often in the 5-9 year range.

• Babies' heads are large compared to the rest of their body. This affects their balance and makes them more vulnerable to falls. Also, as babies can wiggle, kick and roll, they can fall from high surfaces, such as change tables, cribs, high chairs or counters. For more information on falls specific to infants, click Safe Kids Canada - Infant Falls.

Did You Know:

• In Canada, about 40% of the injuries that involved baby gates involve children younger than one year. Safety gates are used to prevent infants and toddlers from falling down stairs or as a barrier between rooms. For more information on safety gates, click Safe Kids Canada - Safety Gates.

• Baby walkers are banned in Canada. Baby walkers have caused more injuries to young children than any other nursery product. In Canada, approximately 500 babies were injured every year while using a walker - nearly three walker injuries every day. For more information on the injuries related to walkers, click Safe Kids Canada - Baby Walkers.

What Can I Do?

• Prevent falls on stairs by securing safety gates at both the top and bottom of the staircase.
• Remember that supervision is key. Always stand close with at least one hand on your infant when using a change table or elevated surface.
• Keep children away from balconies and open windows.
• Use window guards and stops on windows.

For more facts on Falls Prevention click Kids Are Unpredictable.

Every year, hundreds of Canadian children are injured on trampolines, and the number of injuries is increasing. Click on the following link for more statistics and safety tips for trampolines It's Your Health - Trampoline Safety.