Child Safety Tips Every Caregiver Should Know

Caring for youth involves not only love and support, but it also means making sure their world is as safe and secure as possible. Whether you’re a foster parent, grandparent, caregiver, or anyone who plays a role in a child’s life, keeping them protected from harm is a responsibility we all share.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers expert guidance on how to prevent injuries and create safe environments for children of all ages. Below, we highlight some essential safety tips along with AAP resources to help you take simple steps in your home and community.

Remember:  If you have concerns about your child’s immediate safety or health, contact medical professionals or emergency services right away and, if you’re a foster parent, be sure to follow your SAFY divisional protocols for reporting incidents.

Home Safety

From Legos to towering bookcases, everyday household items can pose hidden dangers. Here are a few ways to make your home safer:

• Secure heavy furniture and TVs to prevent tip-overs: Prevent tip-overs by anchoring bookshelves, dressers, and television stands - Preventing Furniture and TV Tip-Overs

• Watch out for choking hazards: Keep small toys, hot dogs, grapes, and coins out of the reach of little ones - Choking Prevention for Babies & Children

• Lock up chemicals and medicine: Use childproof latches on cabinets that store cleaning supplies or medication -  Home Safety: Tips for Families With Young Children

• Be aware of environmental risks: Know how to reduce the risks from lead, pesticides, and other potentially harmful chemicals. Contact poison control if you have questions at 1-800-222-1222 - Lead Exposure: Steps to Protect Your Family

Fire & Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies can happen without warning, but preparation makes all the difference.

• Test alarms monthly: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should always be in working order - Fire Safety: Protecting Your Family from a Home Fire

• Have a fire escape plan: Develop and practice a fire escape plan with your family - Fire Safety: Planning Saves Lives

• Create emergency kits:  Prepare emergency kits for natural disasters like tornadoes, storms, and heat waves. Have a clear family communication plan for such occasions - Tornado Preparedness Tips

• Post your contacts:  Keep emergency contacts and medical info readily available to all family members.

Outdoor & Water Safety

Warm weather brings fun, but also new risks.

• Always supervise children closely near water: Whether it’s apool, lake, bathtub, or even a fountain stay close and teach water safety skills - 5 Water Safety Tips for Kids of All Ages

• Use helmets and protective gear during biking or sports:  Bicycle Safety for Children: Myths & Facts

• Shield kids from the sun: Protect children from sunburn and heat-related illness when outdoors by applying sunscreen and dressing appropriately - Summer Sun, Heat & Air Quality

School & Social Safety

Kids thrive when they feel safe at school and in their social circles.

• Understand your school’s safety policies: Knowing procedures can give you and your child peace of mind -School Safety During an Emergency or Crisis

• Talk about bullying: Address bullying openly and look for warning signs -Bullying: It’s Not OK

• Plan safe routes: Teach children safe routes and rules for walking or biking to school - Safety on the Way to School

• Keep the conversation going:  Encourage open communication about feelings and social challenges

Holiday & Seasonal Safety

Keep the holidays festive and free of preventable accidents.

• Avoid open flames: Use flameless candles and keep decorations away from heat sources -  12 Safety Tips for Holiday Decorations

• Trick-or-treat safely: Supervise trick-or-treating and inspect candy before eating - Halloween Health and Safety Tips

• Use caution with fireworks: Fireworks injuries are serious and preventable. Follow safe fireworks handling and storage guidelines - 4th of July Fireworks Safety

Firearm Safety

Firearm injuries are among the leading causes of injury-related death in children. Responsible storage saves lives.

• Store all firearms securely: Keep them unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition - Preventing Firearm Injuries in Children & Teens

• Talk with children about gun safety: Educate children about firearm dangers. Even if you don’t own firearms, they may encounter them in other homes.

Every child deserves a safe place to grow, learn, and play. By taking small steps to prevent injuries and stay informed, you’re building a healthier future for the children in your care. For more pediatric safety tips and expert resources, visit:

American Academy of Pediatrics Safety & Prevention: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/default.aspx

Health Issues and Conditions (AAP):
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Pages/default.aspx