Car Seat Checks
Keeping the kids in your life safe is a top priority. For car seat safety checks with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician register through Seattle Children's Hospital or find a location in King County that works for your family.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained keep families safer. In the event of a house fire you only have 2-3 minutes to evacuate. Working smoke alarms can alert your family to a potential fire sooner.
Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home including basements. Install smoke alarms at least 10 feet away from the kitchen to prevent nuisance alarms.
Test your smoke alarms once a month. Make sure everyone in your household knows the sounds of a smoke alarm. Vibration and visual smoke alarms can be purchased for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Fire Safety
Young children are at a higher risk for fire and burn injuries. As children begin to crawl and walk it is important to establish a 3-foot child-free space around kitchen appliances and heating elements. Consider a physical reminder such as a printable "Kid-Free Zone" marker.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children, preferably up high in a locked cabinet. Teach children to never touch matches or lighters. They must tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found. Some children play with fire out of curiosity, boredom, or peer pressure without understanding the danger. Other children misuse fire because they are struggling with problems or emotions. It is important to closely supervise children, so they are kept away from fire sources such as lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves.
Evacuation Planning
In the event of a fire or other emergency can every member of your household safely evacuate? Young children rely on their caregivers to evacuate safely. Create a plan with your household and practice it at least twice per year.
Poisonings
According to the National Safety Council 40% of poisonings occur among young children. The Consumer Products Safety Commission warns that poisoning deaths among children are rising due to the ingestion of personal care products like cosmetics or household cleaning supplies. To prevent accidental poisonings, keep all chemicals, such as detergent pods, cleaners, medicines and batteries in a locked cabinet or out of reach of children. Never leave these items on a counter or carry them in a purse where children may find them. Use safety latches on drawers or cabinets and child resistant caps on bottles.