• Supervise kids in the kitchen and during parties. Make sure alcohol and drugs, including edible cannabis, are out of reach. Keep purses and bags away from curious hands.
• Dark, wet or icy conditions make can be dangerous for pedestrians. Dress children in bright clothing and coats with reflectors, and keep them close in parking lots and crossing streets
• Use appropriate car seats: https://www.icbc.com/road-safety/safer-drivers/Pages/Child-car-seats.aspx.
• Remember not to drink and drive and don’t drive high. Talk to older children about not getting into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking or using drugs.
• Helmets are necessary for sledding, skiing, snowboarding or skating, regardless of age or ability. For more on helmet safety: http://www.parachutecanada.org/injury-topics/item/2667.
• Tinsel can be a choking hazard for children.
• Use a sturdy Christmas tree stand to prevent tipping.
• Discard frayed, cracked or broken light strings or extension cords.
• Hang fragile decorations on upper branches to prevent children from breaking them and cutting themselves.
• Put inedible oils, including aromatherapy oils and lamp oil, out of reach of children because they look like juice or water and can be harmful if swallowed.
• Pay attention to age recommendations and labelling on toys. Toys designed for older children may contain small parts that can be a choking hazard for young ones.
• Keep all batteries out of children’s hands, especially small batteries that come in many toys and are choking hazards.
If you suspect your child may have ingested or come into contact with something hazardous, call the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre 24-hour phone line at: 1-800-567-8911.
Need medical care, but not sure if you need to go to hospital Emergency? Read the story about when to visit the Emergency Department.
