Safety Checklist for Children: COVID-19 Edition

Early data from the last couple of months shows an increase in home accidents with children. With the extra time families are spending at home due to COVID-19, there have been more opportunities for accidental poisoning, burns, drownings and other injuries to happen to kids.

While at the house, in the car or out and about this summer, it is important for parents and caregivers to keep a constant eye on their kids. Check out the following safety tips you’ll want to keep top of mind.

While at Home

• Make sure all cleaning products are stored safely and are out of reach.
• If you have multiple kids, make sure their toys are separated based on age appropriateness. This includes keeping small game pieces away from younger children.
• Store all medicines and lock them away from children. This includes any daily vitamins you take.
• Make sure your children’s play areas are safe by installing gates on staircases and guards on windows.
• Keep cords from blinds tucked away. Be sure any top-heavy furniture and TVs are secured to the wall or floor.
• Hot food and beverages should always be kept away from the edge of counters and tables.
• Make sure young children are within arm’s reach of an adult when in the bathtub, kiddie pool or near any other water-filled items.

In and Around Cars

• Keep car doors and trunks locked. Keep keys away from children.
• Never leave your child alone in a car as it can lead to heatstroke.
• Go the speed limit and avoid any distractions when driving, particularly in neighborhoods.
• Always walk around your parked car to check for children before driving away.
• Make sure your child is in a car seat or booster seat that is appropriate for their age and weight. If they don’t need to use either of these items, make sure they are always wearing a seatbelt correctly.
• Always look both ways twice before crossing the street. Make eye contact with drivers and keep phones put away.

Activity Outside

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to continue social distancing from others. This means only closely interacting with those in your household. Avoid large gatherings and stay at least six feet away from others.
• If you are out in a public place wearing a cloth face covering, even outdoors, is a good idea. It is safe for kids two and older to wear them. Also, be sure to disinfect any public equipment like a swing or bench before touching them.
• Have at least one adult watching children of all ages while they are swimming in a pool or in recreational water.
• When biking, skateboarding, rollerblading or using a scooter, be sure children wear an appropriate-fitted helmet.

Still have questions about how to keep your kids safe while at home during COVID-19? Schedule a video visit with one of our Mercy Health providers today.