Safety Alerts: Take That Extra Step

By Catherine Llamido

Safety…See It Before You Sign It

Is your child heading to college in the fall semester? You and your college student are probably on the hunt for off-campus housing. Whether your son or daughter plan to live in a dorm or in off-campus housing, don’t sign on the dotted line until you see the housing first.  Did you know fires in dorms, fraternities, sororities and off-campus housing kill about seven people every year. Renting the wrong apartment or room can be dangerous due to unsafe living conditions. Plan ahead, research the property and make your visit. Check with your school’s housing department or student affairs office. They may be able to assist in providing resources on approved landlords.

 Prevent Child Heatstroke Deaths

The temperatures are heating up and that means vehicles are too. On average, 38 children die in hot cars each year from heat-related deaths after being trapped inside motor vehicles. Even the best of parents or caregivers can unknowingly leave a sleeping baby in a car and the end result can be injury or even death. Here are four simple tips to avoid this:

  • Never leave a child unattended—Look front and back of the vehicle to ensure your child is not left behind.
  • Store your car keys out of child’s reach—Teach your children that a vehicle is not a play area. Lock and store your keys out of reach in situations when your child maybe locked in the car.
  • Quick reminders—We all have those days where we forget our phones or carry-on bags (briefcases or purses) in the car. Give yourself visual cues, for example, like placing your items beside your child.
  • Bystander rule—Say something and get involved. If you see a child alone in a hot vehicle, call 911 immediately. 

Federal Standard for Portable Hook-On Chairs

Before you go shopping for a new high chair, take note—Infants and toddlers will sit safer in portable hook-on high chairs under a new safety standard designed to reduce injuries and deaths. Portable hook-on chairs are intended for children between the ages of six months and three years who weigh no more than 37 pounds. For more info on the new safety standard, visit CPSC.gov.

See more tips and safety alerts on TheSafetyCouncil.org.

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