Spring into Safety

Just as our clocks spring forward for Daylight Savings Time, we can spring forward in thinking about safety this season. We have weathered the winter storms, and who isn’t looking forward to nicer weather and the great outdoors? Before you head out for some spring sun and fun, here are four tips to keep your kids safe:

• Readjust the harness on your child’s car seat – During the winter we tend to dress our children in warmer and bulkier clothing. Now, they are wearing t-shirts and shorts. Be sure to tighten the harness before each ride so it’s nice and snug next to your child’s clothing. Try pinching the harness straps over the child’s shoulders to make sure there’s no slack and remember — the chest clip should rest at the armpit level.

• Spot the Tot – Many children will be playing in the yard, driveway and streets with warmer weather. They are excited to be outdoors again, and we need to be vigilant when we leave home to make sure that our children are properly supervised. On average, a vehicle backs over a child every week in Utah. Remember to walk around your car in driveways and parking lots in order to Spot the Tot and avoid backing over a child. Make this a habit, even if your car has a backup camera. Just 10-15 seconds of caution can save you and others from a lifetime of sorrow.

• Screens keep bugs out but not kids in – As we open windows to let the fresh, spring air into our homes, we must take precautions to prevent upstairs window falls. More than 190 children fall from windows each year by climbing on bunk beds, dressers or other furniture placed near windows. Sometimes a child is simply leaning against a screen waving as mom or dad leave. Move furniture away from windows and provide safe play environments for your children to avoid a serious fall. Supervise children when windows are open in your home and help them understand that screens are designed to keep bugs out — but not kids in.

• Water, danger at any depth – Nice weather brings water fun, be it swimming, boating or camping in the great outdoors. Remember to always supervise your children around water. Make sure an adult is with them or actively watching them when they swim. Be especially careful when camping or hiking near a mountain stream or river, and remember that backyard kiddie pools can be a danger to a head-heavy toddler.

We hope you have a wonderful, fun and safe spring and summer. For more information on these and other safety topics, visit primarychildrens.org/safety.