Being aware and involved makes a big difference in protecting your children from school-related injuries.
Most of us can’t be with our kids throughout the school day, Safe Kids recommends that you advocate for safer practices and teach your child how to protect him- or herself.

Eliminate potential hazards:

·       Check playgrounds where your children play. Look for age-appropriate equipment and hazards such as rusted or broken equipment and dangerous surfaces. Report any hazards to the school or municipality.

·       Remove hood and neck drawstrings from all children’s outerwear to avoid strangulation hazards on playgrounds.

·        Make sure children remove bike helmets before using any playground equipment.

·       If your child is involved in a sports program, talk to the coordinator or coach to make sure the following are included: proper physical and psychological conditioning, appropriate safety equipment, a safe playing environment, adequate adult supervision, enforcement of safety rules, and an emergency medical plan.

·     Carry with you an emergency kit that includes any special medications or supplies that your child may need.

·       Make sure children playing sports are appropriately grouped according to skill level, weight and physical maturity, especially for contact sports.

Teach kids safety:

·       Teach children proper playground behavior: no pushing, shoving or crowding. Tell them what equipment is appropriate for their age levels.

For more information visit:

National SAFE KIDS Campaign
http://www.safekids.org/