- Over a quarter of child drowning deaths occurred at home
- Safety warning for parents about eRideable hazards
- Trampolines and Christmas presents with button batteries can be dangerous
Summer is upon us again, so Consumer Protection has some timely safety tips for families to enjoy the warm weather.
Swimming pools are a major safety risk, with drowning deaths increasing during summer. Figures from Royal Life Saving Australia show 323 people drowned across Australia in the last financial year, 16 per cent higher than the 10 year average. Of this, 15 children under the age of 5 drowned. December and March recorded the highest numbers of drowning deaths.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake urged parents to look for dangers in the backyard and around the pool.
“Twenty-seven per cent of drowning deaths among children aged zero to four occurred at home, with most deaths tragically occurring in either a swimming pool or the bath. This means it’s important to be vigilant about water safety, even at home,” Ms Blake said.
“Make sure pool gates are self-closing and the latches lock properly to prevent access when you’re not around. Never prop pool gates open and keep furniture and other large items out of the way so kids can’t use them to climb over.
“When it comes to water safety, there is no substitute for adult supervision, so parents and carers should keep constant watch around any water source.
“Never assume that flotation and aquatic toys will keep your child safe, as they are only toys and not safety devices.”
While portable pools might seem safe, they pose significant drowning risks to children if there is no fencing and if there is more than 30 centimetres of water.”
Another popular summer pastime is jumping on the trampoline, but unfortunately using the trampoline incorrectly has led to many kids ending up in hospital.
“Make sure only one child uses a trampoline at a time and supervise their use. Also consider putting padding on the frame and remove any hazards located near the trampoline.,” Ms Blake said.
Next, be wary of eRideables, or motorised scooters, which are not toys and can be dangerous.
Due to their growing popularity, accidents involving eRideables have increased. Make sure to purchase age-appropriate devices, that your child wears a helmet, and only one person per device.
“Many eRideables are designed for people aged over 16 years old due to the speed limit exceeding 10 kilometres per hour, which is the maximum speed allowed for children,” Ms Blake said.
“It’s also important to remember that children under 16 are not allowed to use devices on public roads and paths, only on private property and in non-public areas.”
Finally, be aware that many toys, such as those that light up or make sounds, contain tiny button batteries which can be extremely dangerous if swallowed. Around 20 Australian kids per week are sent to the ED after swallowing a button battery.
“It is essential parents check these batteries are secured and not easily accessible,” Ms Blake said.
“When buying Christmas presents for young children, make sure toys don’t have parts that can be easily swallowed to help prevent injury from choking.”
For more summer safety tips, visit the Consumer Protection website. Safety advice for eRideables can be found on the Road Safety Commission website.
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Media Contact: cpmedia@demirs.wa.gov.au