While the carefree spirit of summertime whispers, "Relax, take it easy," Safety says, "Be aware and be prepared." The National Safety Council (NSC) reports, "167,127 people died from unintentional injury-related deaths in 2018." Likewise, the Center of Disease Control (CDC) reports unintentional injuries as the number one leading cause of death in people aged one to forty-four.
Unintentional injuries include-
- falls
- recreational activity mishaps
- car accidents
- choking
- poisons (cleaning supplies, unattended prescriptions/medicines, houseplants, pesticides)
- water fatalities (drowning)
- electrical shock
- dehydration
During the month of June the NCS promotes National Safety Month with a focus on workplace, roadway and community safety. More accidents, however, happen in the home than in the workplace. Take a few minutes to walk through your home and evaluate your surroundings.
- Are pathways and steps clear to prevent falls?
- Are tools and ladders put away?
- Do your doors lock properly?
- Does your first aid kit need to be restocked?
- Can your child call 911? Do they know their address?
- Are phone numbers readily available and not just stored in a cell phone?
- Do you have an emergency plan?
Did you find any areas that need improvement?
The nonfiction titles below might help spark discussions about safety without causing fear or alarm in children. To start a conversation ask a questions like, "What could we do if...? " or "What did you think about the book?" Adding suggestions or tips during discussion may help prepare children for unexpected situations.
Fictional story books to illustrate safety.
