The home is the space where children should feel the safest. However, it is also the scene of most accidents in the home. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), accidents at home are one of the leading causes of injuries and hospitalisations in children under 5 years of age.
From falls and burns to poisoning and suffocation. These incidents can be prevented with the right strategies. But are we really aware of the most common causes of household accidents and the importance of taking action before an emergency occurs?
A SILENT THREAT TO THE YOUNGEST CHILDREN
Many parents underestimate the danger that everyday objects in the home can pose. According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), every year thousands of children suffer accidents in the home, with falls (45%), poisoning (20%) and burns (15%) being the most frequent.
Accidents can not only cause serious injuries. They also create emergency situations for families, who often do not know what to do in the event of a domestic accident. This is why taking preventive measures is essential to ensure the safety of children at home.
HOW TO PREVENT DOMESTIC ACCIDENTS IN CHILDREN
Ensuring a safe environment for children requires attention and planning. Below are key strategies to reduce risks:
1.AVOIDING FALLS AND KNOCKS
- Install corner protectors on furniture.
- Use safety barriers on stairs and windows.
- Do not leave chairs or furniture near open windows.
2. PREVENTING POISONING AND SUFFOCATION
- Store cleaning products and medicines in lockable cupboards.
- Choose age-appropriate toys with no small detachable parts.
- Supervise feeding, avoiding high-risk foods such as nuts in young children.
3. REDUCE THE RISK OF BURNS
- Keep children away from the cooker and heat sources.
- Regulate the temperature of the bath water to avoid scalding.
- Use safety plugs and avoid access to loose cables.
4. BATHROOM SAFETY
- Do not leave children alone in the bath.
- Place non-slip mats to prevent slipping.
- Keep hygiene products out of reach of children.
5. EDUCAR A LOS NIÑOS EN SEGURIDAD
- Teach them what to do in the event of a domestic accident.
- Have a first aid kit at home.
- Keep emergency numbers visible and within reach.
THE BEST SOLUTION: SAFETY EDUCATION FROM CHILDHOOD ONWARDS
At Casvi Villaviciosa International School, we know that prevention is key to avoiding accidents at home. Therefore, within our educational model, we prepare our students with an approach based on research and critical thinking, driven by the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Through practical and educational activities, our students learn from an early age to identify risks in their environment, prevent dangerous situations and act responsibly in their daily lives.
