General Advice

  • Slips, Trips and Falls are a common cause of injury in the home. Check that there are no trailing cables, toys on the floor, loose carpets and other items causing a trip hazard.
  • Be aware of children climbing on chairs and other objects to gain access to light switches, door handles and windows, climbing into freezers and on the stairs.
  • Fit safety glass or cover with a transparent safety film on all low level glazing.
  • Soft furnishings and children’s equipment and toys must conform to the relevant British Safety Standards and possess a CE mark.
  • All cords on window blinds must be cut or stowed out of reach of babies and young children so that they do not present a strangulation hazard. See also Child Death Overview Panel Newsletter regarding Blind Cord Awareness.
  • Where young children are being cared for, install a stair and/or kitchen gate as necessary.
  • Use appropriate access equipment such as a kick stool or step ladder when reaching for items up high or changing a light bulb.
  • Keep stairs and landing free from trip hazards.
  • Be aware that hot taps and hot radiators present higher risks to children than adults. Where necessary, consideration for the installation of radiator covers.
  • Cover or restrict children’s access to garden ponds and pools, and never leave a child unattended near water.
  • Ensure gardening equipment, tools and chemicals are safely locked away out of reach of children.
  • Ensure the garden is secure and that the child cannot wander.
  • Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy, and that appropriate safety checks and servicing are carried out on a regular basis.
  • Store keys out of reach of children.
  • Be aware of what children are accessing on the internet, and install security filters where necessary to ensure they are not accessing sites which are not suitable for their age.
  • Have an Emergency Plan. Know where your gas isolation valve, electric isolation switch and water services stop cock locations are. Have an escape plan in the event of a fire.
  • Keep Emergency telephone numbers in a prominent place for easy access.
  • Firearms must be stored safely and in accordance with the Firearms Act.