Fall Safety Tips - Hilliard Pediatrics

With Autumn quickly approaching, here are some fall safety tips to keep in mind as the temperatures drop and the days get shorter!

Stay Warm: Keep your home warm and safe this fall. Double check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Be sure your furnace is in working order. If using a fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected at least yearly. Use a screen to keep childrens at least a few feet away from a fireplace. Keep in mind these screens and other surrounding structures can still be hot enough to cause burns. Lastly, remember that space heaters can be dangerous. Not only can they cause burns, they are also a common cause of house fires.

Stay Healthy - As colder weather approaches, so do colds and flu! Do your best to stay healthy by washing hands and keeping your work and play areas clean. Wash your hands before eating, after using the bathroom, after playing outside, after being around anyone sick. Always cover your coughs and sneezes. And remember to come see us for a flu shot this fall.

Halloween - Have fun with costumes by incorporating bright colors. Consider adding reflective tape for extra visibility. Young children should always be accompanied by an adult. Older children should stay in groups. Talk with your child about appropriate areas and routes for trick-or-treating, and remember to always use sidewalks and crosswalks to get around safely.

Pumpkins - Carving pumpkins is a great fall activity. Small children should always have help when carving pumpkins. Let them scoop out the insides, but use caution when cutting shapes. Always use a pumpkin carving kit which provides tools that make cutting pumpkins easier. Avoid sharp knives or scissors. When your pumpkin is done, try adding an electronic flameless candle, or use glow sticks to add some color!

References:

Will Crecelius, MD

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