Child safety at home: around water, driveways and roads
Use swimming pool fences that meet Australian standards. Keep them in good working order. Securely cover birdbaths and ponds with wire mesh, or leave them empty until children are five years old.
For safe fun with water, always watch your child and stay within arm’s reach – even if your child can swim.
For pedestrian safety, always supervise children. Hold hands near cars, roads and driveways. Reverse down driveways only when you know where children are.
Child safety around play equipment and in the garden
For safety around play equipment, always supervise your child. Or better still, play with your child!
Sun safety means sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), a hat, sunglasses and clothing that covers your child’s skin.
Fence off dangerous plants, or remove them until your child knows not to touch or eat them (usually around three years).
Home safety around sheds, garages and tools
Lock your shed, garage and storage boxes. Also lock away hand tools. Keep lawnmowers, chainsaws and power tools out of reach. Keep household poisons out of reach, out of sight and locked away, at least 1.5 metres up.
When using tools, make sure your child is out of the way. Unplug tools when not in use.
Keep emergency numbers on your fridge or in your phone. Read more about making your home safe for your child.