Preventing falls

Falls are the most common cause of injuries treated in hospitals in all age groups. Even from birth, babies are always at risk of falling. Children are naturally curious and they often have the desire to climb in and on everything they see Slips and falls are a normal part of a child’s development. For instance, when a child is learning to walk, stumbling is part of the process. To avoid injuries, the aim is to provide a safe environment where they can practise their new skills. Many falls are not serious and may simply result in a bump or bruise, others may result in fractures, cuts or head injuries. There are many actions you can take to prevent more serious injuries.

Main causes of fall injuries:

The most common falls in children 14 years old and younger include falls

• involving playground equipment

• on the same level e.g. from slipping, tripping and stumbling • involving ice skates, skis, rollerskates or skateboards. Children under five were also likely to fall from chairs or highchairs. There are three important factors that influence the seriousness of a fall.

• The height the child can fall from: the lower the height, the lower the danger. Children under five should not have access to heights over 1.5 metres. Older children should not have access to heights over two metres.

• What the child falls onto: hard surfaces such as concrete, ceramic tiles and even compacted sand are more hazardous to fall onto than softer surfaces. • What the child may hit as they fall: landing on sharp-edged furniture or glass can cause serious injuries.

learn, play, grow

Ada Mary A'Beckett Children's Centre

2 Batman Road

Port Melbourne 3207