May e-news
Welcome to the May edition of Kidsafe’s e-news. This month we have a recap of Global Road Safety Week, what you need to know about carbon monoxide poisoning, some information on upcoming free child restraint checking days and hot to prepare kids for emergency situations.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide is a toxic gas that is impossible to see, taste or smell. Many common domestic appliances can produce carbon monoxide, including gas heaters, stoves and barbeques.
With winter well and truly on its way and more people using heaters, there is an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. The good news is there are some simple steps you can take to protect your family. Check out the following tips from the Chase and Tyler Foundation on how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Service all gas appliances regularly as per the manufacturer’s recommendation or at a minimum of once every two years, as recommended by Energy Safe Victoria
- Ensure all chimneys and flues are swept and inspected annually
- Always make sure there is enough fresh air in the room while operating your fuel burning appliance
- Have a qualified gas fitter install a high standard audible carbon monoxide alarm outside sleeping and living areas
- Never bring an outdoor gas appliance inside your home
- Never leave your car’s engine running idle in an enclosed space, like the garage
For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning, please visit http://www.chaseandtyler.org.au/
Global Road Safety Week 4th – 10th May #SaveKidsLives
Global Road Safety Week came to a close on May 10th. The Child Declaration for Road Safety surpassed it’s initial goal of 100,000 signatures, with the total currently sitting at an impressive 205,043 signatures. Thank you to all of our supporters who jumped on board and supported this great initiative!
The declaration calls on world leaders to include a target to halve road traffic fatalities globally, “So that kids everywhere can be kept safe”. You can read more about the declaration and Global Road Safety Week via http://www.savekidslives2015.org/.
Kidsafe supported the campaign through social media posts throughout the week and even took our own “safie” (right).
For more information on how you can keep children safe on and around roads, please visit http://www.kidsafevic.com.au/road-safety.
Free Child Restraint Checking Days
Fitting a child restraint can be a daunting task, especially for new parents who may not have fitted a car seat before. If you are looking for some assistance, Kidsafe is here to help!
With the support of the Victoria Community Road Safety Partnership Program, Kidsafe Victoria are running 15 free child restraint checking days across the state.
Our first event was held in Torquay on May 20th, where we checked restraints for 36 local families. Our next checking day is set for Eastern Reserve in Winchelsea on Thursday 28th May – if you live in the area and would like to book in to have your child restraint checked, please contact Torquay Children’s Hub on 5261 0546.
Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for more details on upcoming checking days – the next one could be held in your local area!
Triple Zero Heroes
9 year-old Ethan, who helped deliver his baby brother, was one of the 27 young Victorians who were recognised at the Triple Zero Heroes Awards on May 13th.
Minister for Emergency Services, Jane Garrett paid tribute to the brave children for remaining calm in stressful circumstances.
The awards highlight the importance of teaching children what to do in emergency situations.
Kidsafe Victoria’s Post Injury Support Portal has links to online resources that can help kids understand what to expect, as well as when it is appropriate to call triple zero. To access these resources, including an interactive game for kids, please visit http://www.kidsafevic.com.au/post-injury-support/what-to-do-in-the-event-of-an-injury
Product Recalls
Big W—Peter Morrissey Nursery Blanket
The decorative stitching around the edge of the blanket may come loose and pose a strangulation hazard. Consumers should return the blanket to any Big W store for a full refund. For more information, please visit https://www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1070835
