I am using my blog this month to highlight some useful research from the National Fostering Agency. The report was written some time ago but is still very relevant and resonates with me in my role as a First Aid Trainer. Particularly when I am working with parents and early years staff, we discuss the levels of anxiety involved in looking after young children safely. We all know that young children can get into danger really quickly, however carefully you watch them. For example, when walking with you they can step out into a busy road without looking, or while your back is turned, they can be finding out what is in your kitchen cupboards.
Many delegates confirm that undertaking an accredited first aid course such I those I offer through ITC First helps to increase their confidence.
The article lists common causes of accidents as:
- Strangulation by Blind Cords
- Burning and Choking from Button Batteries
- Drowning in the bath
- Liquitab Poisoning
- Choking on food
- Overdosing on Painkillers
- Falls downstairs
- Drowning in a pond
This list is useful to anyone who looks after babies or children either for a job, as a volunteer or for a family member. The good news is that many of these accidents are preventable. Spend some time looking around your setting and have a look through the eyes of a young child. What dangers might there be which can be made safe?
Those who have been on my first aid courses know we always talk about choking and minimising the risk through actions such as sitting down to eat, cutting up food, eating slowly…and this applies to adults as well as children!
The full article can be found here.
And don’t forget the work of the Child Accident Trust – some great advice on their website!
So prevention is better than cure, but just in case always make sure you have up to date First Aid Training! Contact me if I can help with this.