We often talk about injuries as acts of fate or freak accidents. We accept them as part of life. But preventable injuries don't happen to us. They're inadvertently caused by us. Often, because we did something without thinking. The good news is, we're the ones who can prevent them.

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death in children under seven years old in Canada.

Every year in Huron County there are over 800 injury related visits to the emergency room by children six years old and younger. A significant number of these injuries are due to falls.

Falls are the most likely cause of injuries in the home. Falls can cause serious injuries such as broken bones and head injuries. Infants up to a year old are particularly vulnerable and are the most likely age group to be injured. They fall off beds, tables and other furniture. They even fall out of car seats and infant seats. Injuries are more severe if these seats are placed on top of furniture.

Children are naturally curious and do not easily recognize and avoid hazards. They need extra protection and care.

Keeping your children safe in your home is an ongoing process. Make changes to your home environment as your child grows. Think about what they will learn next and what they will be able to reach and open. Make necessary changes to keep your child safe.

Injuries are not accidents - they are preventable and predictable events. Many injuries can be avoided by supervising children carefully and by making their surroundings safer.

For more information, contact the Health Unit.

Injury Prevention Checklist

Most injuries of children occur in their own home. The Huron County Health Unit has created The Home Safety Checklist, organized by room, to eliminate common hazards in the home.

Home Safety Checklist (PDF, approx. 500kb)