Blog - Nursery Talk

First Aid Hints and Tips

We held a free first aid workshop for parents at Watford Hilton and were lucky enough to have Brian from Pegasus Health and Safety Training take the lead. Brian has a wealth of knowledge and the talk was well received by all.

Below are a few key points to outline safety habits in and around the home, most are very simple and only require parents to use common sense but a gentle reminder can help to keep your little one safe:

Fire Safety
• Fit a smoke alarm and test it regularly
• Practice an escape route and make a bedtime check
• Don’t over load sockets
• Turn off appliances when not in use

Choking/Strangulation
• Teach children to never eat anything unless mum/dad say it is ok
• Pull-cords on curtains and blinds should be kept short and out of reach
• Ensure small toys, objects and batteries are kept out of reach of children under 3
• Encourage older children to keep their toys away from younger playmates

Slips, Trips and Falls
• Fit a safety gate at the top and bottom of stairs
• Never leave hazards on the stairs
• Do not put anything under a window that could encourage children to climb
• Mop up spills as soon as possible

Effects of Heat and Cold
• It is never too cold to go outside to play – wear lots of layers and wrap up warm
• In hot weather wear loose clothing and apply sun cream throughout the day
• Drink plenty of fluids – even on a cold day, keep hydrated
• Always check bath water before placing your little one in

Electrical Safety
• Look for the CE mark, the BEAB mark, BS safety mark or British Standard number when you buy electrical equipment
• Never overload an electric socket
• Have your wiring installation checked at least once every five years by an approved contractor or straight away if you are buying an older property

Poison Prevention
• Keep medicines in original bottles and locked away
• All household cleaners should be locked away
• Keep cosmetics, perfumes and essential oils away from children

Burns and Scalds
• Keep hot drinks out of reach
• Remember hair straighteners and curling tongs stay hot for a long time after use so keep them out of reach of little hands
• When running a bath turn the cold water on first and test the water temperature with your elbow before letting your child get in

Water
• Never leave children unattended in the bath – children can drown in as little as 3cm of water
• Ponds should be filled in or fenced off
• Take special care when visiting other people’s gardens

Here are Pegasus’ top 12 safety devices for child proofing your home
1. Safety Catches and Locks
2. Safety Gates
3. Door and Drawer Locks
4. Anti-Scald devices for taps and shower heads
5. Smoke Detectors
6. Window Locks or Bars
7. Corner and Edge Cushions
8. Socket Covers
9. Carbon Monoxide (Co) Detector
10. Safety Tassels and Inner Cord Stops
11. Door Stops and Door Holders
12. Cordless Phone