It is shocking that 13 million children under the age 14 are injured every year seriously enough to require hospital treatment, says Ron Bistolfo, Director of Education at the American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter in San Francisco, California. Backyard injuries are a contributor to that whopping number. In this follow-up piece, we look at several other hazards lurking in our backyards. Planning and common sense can go a long way in preventing injury to your child. Always have your child's protective gear on when riding bikes, on roller blades, roller skates or any riding equipment.
Gear includes a properly fitting helmet, elbow pads, knee and wrist pads.
Long pants are a good idea too. Once again adult supervision is a must. When using a barbecue, establish a line around it which your children can not cross. They move faster than you expect and can be badly burned. Be sure there is adult supervision at all times and the adult in charge is keeping a close eye on the barbecue.