Summer Safety Series – Child Safety

With the school year ending, more young people will be on the roads either in cars, on foot, or on a bicycle. This presents increased risk factors during school and evening hours. Car accidents, improper safety equipment, and accidents in the home are all things that can be avoided to keep the summer safe for everyone.

Here are a few reminders to stay safe:

  1. Buckle Up and Use The Correct Car Seat For Your Summer Road Trip!

In a study by NHTSA, seats caused a 71 percent reduction in infant injuries and a 54 percent reduction for toddlers. The back seat is the best place for all children younger than 13 years old, as front airbags can be dangerous to children. Seat belts are a necessity for everyone in the car, they reduce accident injury and death by 45 percent.

So remember to buckle up, put the kids in proper seats, and watch the road.

  1. Safe Biking Means Wearing A Helmet

Cyclists should also be reminded that both adults and children should be wearing helmets every time they are out. Cyclists who wear a helmet reduce their risk of head injury by an estimated 60% and brain injury by 58%.

Make sure you and your family put on helmets before taking the bikes.

  1. Safety At Home Means Taking Extra Precautions

Children are around the house with energy to spare during the summer. In order to keep them safe from accidents make sure you have taken the proper steps. Install stair gates, discuss the dangers of using the oven alone, and put matches and other hazardous materials  out of reach. Every day, approximately 8,000 children are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fall-related injuries.

Take the extra time to child proof your home, even a few precautions could prevent a serious accident.

Here at Reid Goodwin we would like to remind everyone to stay safe and aware this summer. If you ever find yourself or a family member injured in an accident, please contact one of our experienced attorneys to assist you.