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In winter we use heaters to warm our homes and we enjoy hot drinks. It is necessary to ensure that children are protected from burns and scalds. Guard around heaters, dress children in non-flammable sleepwear and never hold a baby with a cup of tea or coffee in your hands.
Snow sports
The majority of injuries sustained from snow sports are caused from falls. Accidents are more likely to occur as children get tired. Arrange shorter days to prevent fatigue.
Heaters
Many children are burnt from heaters and open fires. Guards will prevent contact with hot surfaces and flames and prevent contact with clothing which could ignite.
Flammable fabrics
Not only is it important to choose clothes that protect children from the weather and look good, but it is also important to choose clothes which help to keep children safe. Non-flammable sleepwear is helpful in reducing burn injuries.
Snow sports
The majority of injuries sustained from snow sports are caused from falls. Accidents are more likely to occur as children get tired. Arrange shorter days to prevent fatigue.
- Provide appropriate safety equipment including boots and goggles.
- Arrange lessons where possible.
- Look for slopes which are quieter and carefully supervise children.
- Teach children appropriate behaviour to avoid collisions.
- Discourage children attempting maneuvers beyond their abilities.
Heaters
Many children are burnt from heaters and open fires. Guards will prevent contact with hot surfaces and flames and prevent contact with clothing which could ignite.
- Install heater guards around all open fires, gas wall furnaces, electric radiators, fan heaters and pot-bellied and combustion stoves.
- Ensure that guards are securely attached to the wall.
- A good test of whether you need a guard is to place your hand on the surface. If the surface is so hot that you cannot leave it there for more than 10 seconds, you need a guard.
- Guards should be about 700mm high.
Flammable fabrics
Not only is it important to choose clothes that protect children from the weather and look good, but it is also important to choose clothes which help to keep children safe. Non-flammable sleepwear is helpful in reducing burn injuries.
- Some types of fabrics burn more easily and quickly than others.
- Look for labels warning of fire danger. These are compulsory on all children's nightwear.
- Choose clothing which are 'low fire danger' or 'styled to reduce fire danger' labels for your child.
- Avoid children's nightwear which is loose or has ties that could be tangled or catch on fire from heaters.
- Remember to teach children that if their clothing catches on fire they should "stop, drop and roll".
