All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are often used for recreation and transportation. Child Safety Link has significant concerns regarding the use of ATVs by children and youth due to the very high risk of serious injury and death. Safety…
A booster seat adjusts the seat belt so that it fits across your child’s strongest bones, and away from their soft belly. To safely use a booster seat your child must weigh at least 18 kg (40 pounds) and be able to sit correctly for the whole ride…
Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for children. So as a parent or caregiver, minimizing the risks associated with driving is one of the best things you can do to keep your child safe. As the driver, it means you should be…
Any blow to the head, face, or neck, or a blow to the body that jars your head, can cause a concussion. A concussion is a brain injury that can’t be seen on routine X-rays, CT scans or MRIs. Symptoms of a concussion include dizziness, headache,…
If a product is available in Canada, does that mean it’s safe or has been tested for safety? Not necessarily. There are some products—like toys for young children, that are regulated. But there are many other products, even ones aimed at kids, that…
We know that falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalization among children. We also know that children fall in different situations based on their age. Children aged 0-4 are most likely to fall at home. Children aged…
The safest place for children younger than 13 is in the back seat. This is because the back seat is furthest away from the point of impact in a frontal crash (frontal crashes are the most common and most dangerous type of collision), and because…
If your child is being active and expanding their horizons by using a bike, scooter, skateboard, skates, or playing a sport, that’s a great thing for their physical health and their independence. But high speeds, mingling with car traffic, and the…
Throughout their life, especially in their younger years, your child will spend a lot—if not the majority—of their time at home. So making your home as safe as it can be should be a priority. In the youngest years, your efforts will mostly be in…
Playgrounds are wonderful places for children to be active and test their physical and social skills. Playgrounds can help kids learn to take calculated risks—an important life skill. Of course, used incorrectly, a playground can also come with…