During the Easter holidays schools are closed, which means that children spend more time at home where many child accidents occur.

The Child Trauma Response Association is offering tips to help prevent accidents at Easter:

.

1. Attention to fireworks. Hundreds of children have been injured by fireworks and dynamite. Buy only approved fireworks and check their expiration date. We do not experiment with homemade crafts and children are always under adult supervision.

A reminder that the burning of fireworks is permitted only for the entertainment of the public during official ceremonies, festivals and celebrations, with the exception of Easter.

2. Easter without burns. When dyeing eggs and preparing Easter treats, never leave young children unsupervised in the kitchen.

3. Beware of the candle flame and melted wax, as they can cause burns. Also, avoid candles that are decorated with flammable materials and explain to children how to hold them. Remember that a young child’s skin is more sensitive than adults.

4. Pay particular attention to grills and spits. Burning coals and hot irons cause serious burns.

5. Food poisoning:

* Safe consumption of dyed eggs requires that they be properly stored before and after boiling.

* Chocolate treats may deteriorate at high temperatures. Be sure to store in a cool, dry place.

6. If we go to our cottage, even for a few days, let’s make sure it’s safe. Pay particular attention to:

*Balkonia

* Ballistic Doors & Windows

*Scales

*Wells

* Pisces

7. When walking in the countryside, make sure children have appropriate clothing and closed shoes to protect them from insects and reptiles. If we take up gardening, great care is needed in keeping pesticides and fertilizers safe.

8. Holidays and nice weather are often an excuse for bike rides. Children should learn to always wear a helmet to avoid potential head injuries.

9. With Easter comes the warmth and the first baths. Beware of young children. It only takes a few seconds and a few inches of water to drown a child.

10. At the holidays when we go out shopping and it’s crowded, always hold young children by the hand and on the inside of the sidewalk.

11. When travelling by car, children must always wear their seat belts correctly and sit in the back seat. If children require our attention, stop carefully in a safe place on the road before dealing with them.

12. Many road accidents are caused by child passengers disturbing and distracting parents-drivers. To keep a calm atmosphere in the car, especially on long journeys, make sure that children have some safe toys with them to keep them occupied. We also need to schedule some stops so that children can move around outside the car, and then be calm on the ride.