ACCIDENT PREVENTION: PRESCHOOLERS

Preschoolers continue to be very active and, although they are increasingly able to understand danger and safety precautions, still need constant reminding and careful supervision. All of the types of injuries described for toddlers are relevant for preschoolers as well; often even more so because the preschooler is stronger, more coordinated and therefore more willing to take greater risks. Review the section on toddler injuries, and make sure that the risks of injury for your preschooler are minimised.

Bicycle safety

Children must be supervised when learning to ride a tricycle or bicycle. Make sure your child wears an approved bicycle helmet at all times, and does not ride on roads. The bicycle must be the correct size, and in good condition.

Playgrounds

Playground injuries are even more common in children of preschool and school age than in the toddler age group. Again make sure that the equipment is safe, and that the surface below it is soft.

Children of school age and adolescents are more able to understand safety concepts, although they cannot always be relied upon to act responsibly, especially under the influence of peers.

Whether the child walks or rides a bicycle to school, pedestrian safety and the rules for crossing roads should be understood. Teach him to cross at lights or at a school crossing, wherever possible. If a crossing is not available, help select a crossing point with maximum visibility for pedestrians and motorists. Crossing skills are not mastered until at least 9 years of age, and often later.

Sporting injuries are common in the school age and adolescent group. Many school sports have modified rules to lessen the risks of injury, and school playgrounds are usually supervised by teachers. If your child engages in contact sports, consider the fitting of a mouthguard. If your child rides a bicycle, make sure the bicycle is properly maintained and in good condition and that he has an approved helmet. Helmets must be worn at all times. Skateboards, rollerblades and trailbikes should only be used with proper protective equipment — helmet, knee and elbow pads. Make sure that you buy this protective equipment at the same time as the bike, skateboard or rollerblades and that your child always wears it.

Make sure that your child can swim, and that he understands the risks associated with water and water sports, such as the danger of diving into water if the depth is unknown, or the danger of swimming at unsupervised surf beaches or isolated waterholes.