Every November, Child Safety Link and our injury prevention partners across Atlantic Canada recognize Fall Prevention Month. This month is a time to raise awareness about the serious impact of fall-related injuries on families in Atlantic Canada, and the measures we can take to prevent these injuries.
This year’s theme, Baby Gates: The First Step to a Safer Home, highlights the important role of baby gates in protecting young children from falls at home.
Here are some effective steps to reduce the risk of serious falls on stairs:
- Install a hardware-mounted baby gate at the top of stairs.
- Use either a hardware-mounted or pressure-mounted baby gate at the bottom of stairs to prevent access up the stairs.
- Supervise young children around stairs, and teach older children safe stair habits, like holding the railing and walking instead of running.
- Keep stairs clear of clutter and hazards such as toys, books, or loose rugs.
As part of our promotions this year, Child Safety Link has created a new resource outlining The Do’s and Don’ts of Baby Gates for families and care providers of small children. This resource is available in French, Mi'kmaq, Arabic, and Spanish.
Throughout Fall Prevention Month 2024, Child Safety Link will share weekly tips on Facebook and Instagram, focused on keeping young children safe at home, with a spotlight on baby gate use.
Visit our falls prevention page for information tailored to every age and stage of infancy and childhood.