Preventing Falls & Injuries at Play

• Make sure your child wears a helmet and protective gear every time he or she bikes, rides a scooter, skates, skateboards, skis, etc.

Preventing Motor Vehicle Injuries

• Pre-teens should always use a lap and shoulder belt on every ride.

• Pre-teens under about 4 foot 9 inches and 80 to 100 pounds should use a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt.

• Never put the shoulder belt behind the back or under the arm.

• All children under age 13 should ride in a back seat.

Preventing Burns & Scalds

• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Practice an escape plan with your family.

• Teach your pre-teen to never play with matches, lighters or fireworks and to never light candles in his or her bedroom.

• Set your water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

• Place hot foods and liquids on the center of the table. Don’t set them on the edges of tables or counters.

• Don’t let your child use a microwave until he or she is tall enough to reach the items in it safely and understands that steam can cause burns.

Preventing Poisonings

• Talk to your pre-teen about the dangers of poisonous items like inhalants and prescription medicines.