Learn how to protect children from accidents at home and during playtime in general
Firefighters and specialists point out simple measures to prevent falls, drownings, burns, electric shocks, and poisonings
For kids, houses, beaches, and clubs become great stages for adventures. However, if these places are not well supervised, playtime can end in scares or more serious situations. Data from the Fire Department of Pará shows that during school recess, incidents involving children increase — especially falls, burns, electric shocks, and drownings. Health professionals, parents, and firefighters list essential precautions that fit into any family routine.
“Children cannot be left alone under any circumstances, and even less responsible for other children,” warns Maria Luiza Freitas, mother of Marina (5) and Theo (3). She adapted the entire house by installing corner protectors, locks on cabinets, and covers on outlets. “Even with all the barriers, supervision must be constant.”
Psychologist Larissa Gomes agrees. She recently experienced the scare of seeing her son Felippo choke on a remote control cap. “I performed the Heimlich maneuver immediately. After that, I raised cabinets, installed gates on the stairs, and put protectors on all outlets within their reach,” she says.
'40% of accidents occur in the kitchen,' say Firefighters
According to the guidelines from the Fire Department, to prevent domestic accidents with children, it is necessary to pay attention to locked cabinets, dry floors, and store medicines in a safe place. Data from the Fire Department indicates that 40% of accidents occur in the kitchen, so it is important to instruct children not to approach the stove. Additionally, cleaning products and sharp utensils should be stored in high places and preferably locked away.
To prevent falls, do not place rugs near stairs, keep floors dry, and install bars or nets on windows and balconies. To prevent a child from receiving an electric shock, use outlet covers and hide loose wires; hot appliances (irons, straighteners) should be unplugged and kept out of reach until they cool down.
For Major Israel Souza from the Fire Department, each play requires a different protocol. When flying a kite, “always have an adult nearby, stay away from electrical wiring, and never use cerol,” he says.
Water play requires adult supervision
Swimming in pools, streams, lakes, rivers, or beaches requires an adult present and attentive supervision. “Prefer places with lifeguards,” advises Major Souza.
Check out the tips from the Fire Department of Pará:
Burns: cool the area under running water; if blisters appear or the skin is raw, seek medical attention and do not use home remedies like toothpaste or butter.
Choking: apply the Heimlich maneuver and immediately take the child to a health unit if the object is not expelled.
Drowning: stay calm and call lifeguards; if there are none, attempt a rescue only if it is safe to do so. Call 193 in any emergency.
Education that saves: Teaching children to recognize risks is part of the process. Explain, in a playful way, why objects should not be put in outlets or mouths, why they should not touch the stove, and why they should not enter the water without an adult. “Continuous guidance is as important as physical barriers,” emphasizes the major.
Service
Emergencies: Fire Department – 193
Prevention information: www.bombeiros.pa.gov.br
First aid courses: contact the nearest Fire Department unit
By following these simple recommendations, vacations can be synonymous with unforgettable moments — and free from accidents.
