Many childhood injuries and accidents can be prevented. For safety tips, information and more child safety resources, go to Kidsafe NSW.

Baby carriers, slings and pouches

Before using a baby carrier, sling or pouch, parents and carers should be aware that babies who are born premature, of low birth weight, are unwell, or are under four months of age are at greater risk of suffocation. Talk to your Child and Family Health Nurse, GP or paediatrician before using a baby carrier, sling or pouch.

For more information on safe use of these devices visit Raising Children's Network and Product Safety Australia.

Water pool and safety for children

Drowning is the number one cause of death for children. Because it can happen quickly and quietly, it is important to actively supervise your child when they are in or near water at all times. This means a competent adult swimmer is within arm's reach of any child.

For more information on water and pool safety for children, go to Kidsafe NSW - Water Safety.

For bath and water safety tips, visit Raising Children Network - Bath and water safety.

For more information on pool safety and how to ensure your pool is safe go to NSW Swimming Pool Register.

Car safety

Car safety is important for children of all ages. It is the law for all children up to seven years of age to be correctly restrained according to their age and size. Older children, young people and adults should use an adult seatbelt.

For further information go to NSW Centre for Road Safety - Child car seats.

A few important safety concerns to be aware of

For infants

  • rolling off a change table, bench or bed
  • choking on a small item
  • scalding caused by a hot drink being spilled over the child
  • ingesting poison or an overdose of medication
  • falling from a caregiver’s arms.

For toddlers 12 months to 3 years

  • choking on unsuitable foods and small items
  • falling out of a highchair, shopping trolley or pram or falling down stairs
  • scalding caused by a child turning on the hot tap in the bath or pulling saucepans down from the stove
  • ingesting poisons, medications and household detergents that were previously out of reach
  • burns caused by heaters and fires
  • being hit by vehicles in driveways
  • drowning in baths, unfenced swimming pools and spas
  • jumping off furniture and running into sharp objects
  • falling from playground equipment
  • running onto the road without looking
  • falling from windows and balconies.

For children 3 to 5 years

  • falling from a bicycle, a scooter, playground equipment or in the home
  • dog bites
  • scald injuries
  • falling from windows and balconies
  • being hit by vehicles in driveways
  • drowning in baths, unfenced swimming pools and spas.
Current as at: Thursday 25 May 2023
Contact page owner: Maternity, Child and Family