Raye Neely, an LSU AgCenter family development expert , says that accidental injuries are the leading cause of death among children ages 1 through 19 in the United States. More than 13,000 children and adolescents died of motor vehicle crashes, drowning and residential fires in 1996, Neely says, citing the latest available statistics. Overall, unintentional injury rates are the highest for among adolescents ages 15-19, males, children from impoverished families and minorities.
Unintentional injuries are costly to society and families as well, Neely adds.
For every fatal injury, approximately 18 children are hospitalized, and 233 are treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries. Fortunately, most unintentional injury deaths to children can be prevented. Simple, proven interventions such as using child car seats and bicycle helmets, controlling traffic in residential neighborhoods and installing smoke detectors in homes could reduce childhood injury deaths by one-third, representing more than 4,000 deaths to children per year. Education to promote change in behaviors can reduce the risks of childhood injuries. Environment and product changes or modifications that make children's physical surroundings, toys and clothing safer can dramatically decrease the incidence of childhood injuries.