Button batteries, blind cords and bunk beds are among basic household items inflicting injuries on Brimbank children.
Kidsafe Victoria has joined forces with the state government to launch a Play it Safe at Home campaign, highlighting the many potential domestic dangers confronting kids.
Kidsafe Victoria chief executive Melanie Courtney said bunk beds, nursery furniture, pools, curtain and blind cords, button batteries, trampolines, poisons, stairs and doors were common items that could put babies and kids at risk of injury or, in extreme cases, death.
Hospitals and childcare centres will distribute checklists to help parents hazard- proof their homes as part of the campaign.
According to Kidsafe, about 30 Victorian children die and a further 81,000 are hospitalised each year from accidents on the family property.
More than 23,000 children were taken to Sunshine Hospital’s emergency department in 2014.
Western Health spokeswoman Shannon Shephard said about a third of all presentations of children related to injuries – including lacerations, fractures and concussions – incurred both at home and while out and about.
Ms Courtney said most of these injuries and deaths were preventable and, at present, more Australian children were dying from injuries than of cancer, asthma and infectious diseases combined.
“Children are naturally curious and unpredictable. It’s up to us as parents to make sure we provide them with a home environment that’s challenging but safe from hazards that can cause serious injury.
“It’s important for families to constantly monitor their homes for safety issues and if a hazard is identified, remove it immediately.”
Consumer Affairs Minister Jane Garrett said simple measures such as fitting safety plugs in unused power points and ensuring furniture was free of sharp corners could make a world of difference.
“The risks are real but preventable.”
For more information about child safety around the home, visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au/productsafety.
