Welcome to the May edition of Kidsafe Victoria’s e-news. This month we will be sharing information on a new concussion management app and the findings from a recent study on child head injuries. We also have some information on the most recent product recalls. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for regular safety tips and updates – happy reading and stay safe!
New concussion app
Developed by world leading concussion experts at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) and the AFL, the new HeadCheck app helps Trainers & Coaches to recognise the symptoms of a suspected concussion and its severity.
In addition, the app also provides support for parents during stressful situations, advises parents about when the most appropriate time to go to hospital or the GP, guides parents on when it’s safe to send children back to school, training and games, and also lists the patient’s symptoms to observe to tell paramedic/doctor.
Victorian football clubs are encouraged to download the FREE HeadCheck app and share it with your trainers, first aiders, parents and your members so everyone can have access to the best practice in child concussion education and advice.
Scooters responsible for nearly half of child head injuries
A recent study, published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health has revealed that scooters are responsible for nearly half of head injuries among children. A total of 46% of child head injuries were attributed to scooters, whilst bikes were responsible for 35% and skateboards 19%.
These figures have been attributed to parental beliefs that scooters are low risk and that therefore safety gear like helmets are not required. In fact it has been found that around 60% of children under four do not wear helmets when riding scooters.
Kidsafe recommend that children should wear correctly fitted and appropriate safety gear such as a helmet, wrist guards, elbow and knee pads when using ant type of wheeled device.
Join the Kidsafe Team!
We are currently looking for a part time Project Officer to join our team!
For more information and to download the position description please click here.
Product Recalls
Kaleidoscope Australasia- Le Toy Van Noah’s Shape Sorter
The product contains small parts which may be dislodged if dropped. Small parts can be a choking hazard to infants and young children. Consumers should return the entire product to their place of purchase for a refund or credit. If purchased online, consumers should contact the place of purchase for return and credit/refund information. For further information, please click here
Plum Products Australia- Plum Premium Metal Nest Swing with Mist
Some swing sets may have a rope manufacturing defect which can cause the rope to detach from its plastic joint under load, potentially resulting in an injury. Consumers should stop using the swing immediately and take all reasonable steps to prevent children using the swing. If possible, remove the nest swing from the frame. Plum will send consumers replacement ropes, with fitting instructions and tools to enable you to change the ropes. For further information, please click here.
