Summer is here, and it's time to get outside and have fun making memories with family and friends.
Consumer Protection wants West Aussies to have a safe, happy, and healthy summer and importantly – no trips to the Emergency Department. This time of year comes with its own set of risks so it’s timely to give everyone a little reminder for how to enjoy the warm weather safely.
When it comes to kids staying safe there’s no substitute for adult supervision. Especially around water.
Drowning is a silent killer. It can happen to young children within 20 seconds and in just few centimetres water.
Stop scrolling through mind-numbing memes and put the phone away so you can keep watch when little ones are swimming or even better – get in and have a splash with them.
Portable pools, like the blow up one you got out for the start of the hot weather, might be small and seem safe, but they pose significant drowning risks to children. It’s a good idea to empty them and store away when they’re not use, give your plants and lawn a big drink so the water is not wasted.
Did you know in WA, it is a legal requirement to have a fence with a gate that is self-closing and locks properly around any pool with more than 30 centimetres of water? This includes portable pools. Pool fences should be checked regularly to make sure there are no holes or a broken gate.
Families should also be mindful not to prop open pool gates or leave large items such as furniture near pool fences. We know how easily little ones can climb and these objects provide easy access.
Pools toys are fun and can make life easier with babies and toddlers but they are not safety devices and should never replace adult supervision. When buying or using pool toys, check the age and weight restrictions to ensure the products are appropriate for use.
When it comes to fun in the sun out of the water, Consumer Protection has safety tips for using trampolines and eRideables.
Due to their growing popularity, accidents involving eRideables have increased. Make sure to purchase age-appropriate devices, that your child wears a helmet, and only one person per device.
It’s also important to remember that children under 16 are not allowed to use eRideables on public roads and paths, they can only ride on private property and in non-public areas.
While you might be accused of being the fun police, make sure only one child uses the trampoline at a time and supervise their use. No one wants a broken bone, cuts or sprains from being double bounced off the side. Also consider putting padding on the frame and remove any hazards located near the trampoline.
Keep your summer fun but stay safe, out of hospital and alive. For more summer safety tips, visit the Consumer Protection website.