NATIONAL NEWS - The 21 days of national lockdown poses an increased risk for children and is not the time to relax proper adult supervision.
According to the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital and ChildSafe SA, children of all ages in confined spaces are vulnerable to a range of injuries such as burns, falls, poisons, suffocation, electrocution and even drowning. Children are now close to heat, water and chemical sources in the home. Also, ensure that hot liquids are out of reach and supervise kids around candles and fires.
Dr. Cindy Stephen who heads up the Poison Information Centre says there has already been an increase in enquiries due to children ingesting hand sanitizers.
"This is the time to build on family relationships and not take out frustrations on children and spouses," says Carla Brown, head of social work at the hospital. "Alcohol and drug use severely impact an adult's ability to supervise and care for children. Please stay home and stay sober."
In addition to supervision, ChildSafe recommends a room by room inspection of the home to ensure it is free from any injury risk.
A few quick tips
Keep kettle cords out of reach, turn pan handles on a stove to the back, store water safely, check for potential fall risks or furniture that can fall on children (e.g. televisions and drawers), check fire alarms.
The Poison Information Centre can be reached on 0861 555 777. The ChildSafe website is www.childsafe.org.za
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