• Knowledgebase: Child Safety, Injury Prevention and Treatment

    Questions about child safety and injury prevention, as well as treatment for minor injuries.

    22. Injuries from falls - Top

    Injuries from falls

    One of the most common causes of injury to children is falls. Falls can result in serious head injuries, broken bones, bruises, chipped teeth and other injuries.

    You can take the following steps to protect your child:

    Never leave a baby alone on a bed, changing table, sofa or chair.
    Make sure children are strapped into highchairs and strollers.
    Never allow your baby or toddler to climb stairs unassisted.
    Don't leave clothes, shoes, toys or other items on stairs.
    Never leave a child alone on a balcony, fire escape or high porch.
    Make sure railings are sturdy.
    Children often tumble out of windows. Do not put beds, cribs or other furniture near windows. Do not rely solely on screens to protect a child. A screen could come loose from the weight of a child leaning against it. It is best to open a window no more than 5 inches in a home with children.
    Do not allow young children to play on swing sets, jungle gyms, slides and other playground equipment without being watched by adults.
    Make sure your child is protected from falls in other locations, such as grandparents' homes or the babysitter's home.

    - Updated: June 11, 2001

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP