Falls Leading Cause Of Injury Among Children In Connecticut

DANBURY — Falls are the leading cause of injury among children in Connecticut.

Each year, more than 100 children ages 14 and under die and another 2.5 million are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries including falls from windows, down stairs, off furniture, and from bikes and outdoor play equipment. Among children who die, more than half are age 4 and under.

“Although parents and care givers may be vigilant in protecting their children from falls and impact injuries, unexpected distractions are inevitable,” says Newtown resident Jack S.C. Fong, MD, chairman, Department of Pediatrics, at Danbury Hospital. “You can’t be there all of the time so be smart and proactive. Take the extra steps that will prevent your children from entering dangerous situations that could result in a fall, especially during those moments when you’re not watching.”

“It only takes a second for a fall to occur, but the effects of an injury could last a lifetime,” said Charles Conway, executive director of the Fairfield County Safe Kids Coalition. “With proper supervision and the use of simple safety devises such as safety gates and window guards in the home, and bike helmets and other protective gear while kids are playing outdoors, parents can protect their children from unnecessary harm and injury.”

Contrary to popular belief, window screens are only designed to keep bugs out, not to keep children in. Window screens can easily give way to the weight of a child. An open window is an invitation for a fall to a curious, unsuspecting child.

Danbury Hospital, through its membership in Fairfield County Safe Kids, suggests the following tips to help prevent children from falling from windows and other areas of your home:

• Move chairs, cribs, beds, and other furniture away from windows and draperies. Remember that children can fall from windows opened as little as five inches.

• Install window guards to all windows in your home. Be sure that the guards meet ASTM standards for emergency exits in the event of a fire. Never rely on window screens to prevent a fall.

• Never let children play on fire escapes, high porches, balconies, or stairs.

• Use safety gates at both the top and bottom of stairs. Stairs are particularly dangerous, and falls from stairs tend to result in more severe injuries.

• Keep hallways and stairs well-lit and clear of clutter.

• Never use baby walkers on wheels. Use stationary activity centers or walker alternatives.

• Never leave young children alone on changing tables, beds, sofas, or other furniture. Additionally, always strap children into high chairs, swings, and strollers.

For more information on preventing falls, call Fairfield County Safe Kids Coalition at 203/325-5566 or visit their Web site at www.fcsafekids.org.