BUSHFIRE SAFETY
BEACH SAFETY
Child Safety HANDBOOK A RESOURCE FOR PARENTS, CARERS AND TEACHERS
Proudly brought to you by NSW Police Legacy
PERSONAL SAFETY
CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH
ONLINE SAFETY
LIGHT RAIL SAFETY
SCHOOL ZONE
8-9 2 -4
30 AM
30
PM
SCHOOL DAYS
40
ROAD SAFETY
POOL SAFETY
THINKUKNOW WHAT YOUNG PEOPLE SEE, SAY & DO ONLINE? ThinkUKnow is a free, evidence-based cyber safety program that provides presentations to Australian parents, carers and teachers and students. It provides information on the technologies young people use, the challenges they may face, and importantly, how they can be overcome. Presentations are delivered face to face or digitally. We aim to provide you with the tools to create a safer online environment for young people in your care. Our presentations cover what young people SAY, SEE and DO online.
Information For Parents: Encourage your child’s school to book a ThinkUKnow presentation by completing the booking form on our website, or calling 1300 362 936 during business hours. • Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and issues. • Visit our website www.thinkuknow.org.au for information and advice on raising children in a digital age.
ThinkUKnow Australia is a partnership between the Australian Federal Police, Microsoft Australia, Datacom and the Commonwealth Bank, and is delivered in collaboration with New South Wales Police Force and other Australian law enforcement agencies. It aims to raise awareness amongst parents, carers and teachers of how young people might use technology, the challenges they may face and how to help them overcome these challenges. Sponsored by The Hon David Elliott MP Minister for Police and Emergency Services
FOREWORD
MESSAGE FROM HER EXCELLENCY THE HONOURABLE MARGARET BEAZLEY AO QC GOVERNOR OF NEW SOUTH WALES The health and wellbeing of our children is everyone’s responsibility. As Patron of New South Wales Police Legacy, I am honoured to contribute a message to all parents, carers, teachers and members of the community who will read this new edition of the Child Safety Handbook. Within these pages is a wealth of pro-active and preventative measures to keep our youngest and most vulnerable members of our community healthy and safe – at school and at home, with family members and with friends, while on the street and online, and during outdoor play and natural emergencies. I congratulate New South Wales Police Legacy for its continuing commitment to providing a copy of this invaluable and updated resource to parents of primary school-aged children throughout our State.
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO QC Governor of New South Wales
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FOREWORD
FOREWORD BY CHAIRPERSON NSW Police Legacy is honoured to provide the Child Safety Handbook to parents of primary school children throughout the State. This free handbook has attained an outstanding reputation as an invaluable resource guide for parents to help educate their children about key health and safety issues confronting our children today. NSW Police Legacy, in conjunction with Associated Media Group of Sydney, has been publishing this handbook for over 5 years and it gives me great pleasure that we are able to continue to provide this outstanding and current reference guide. I would especially like to extend our gratitude to the organisations whose advertising in this book has made it possible to produce the Child Safety Handbook as well as enabling NSW Police Legacy to continue to support the bereaved families of deceased Police Officers across New South Wales.
Gary Merryweather Chairperson NSW Police Legacy
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
CHILD SAFETY HANDBOOK A VITAL HEALTH & SAFETY RESOURCE FOR PARENTS AND CARERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS:
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oght call. Know number the righ to c USEFUL CONTACTS
TRIPLE ZERO (000) For emergencies or life threatening situations
POLICE ASSISTANCE LINE (131 444)
CRIME STOPPERS (1800 333 000)
For non emergencies
To provide crime information anonymously
m. phone. Remember You nevertoknow save when these you numbers will need to your them. phone NAME
PHONE NUMBER
WEBSITE
13 11 14 (24 hours)
www.lifeline.org.au
Marine Rescue NSW
02 9450 2468 or call 000
marinerescuensw.com.au
www.allergyfacts.org.au
Mensline Australia
1300 789 978 (24/7)
www.mensline.org.au
Mental Health Foundation
1800 011 511 (24/7)
Mission Australia Help Line
13 11 14
www.missionaustralia.com.au
National Security Hotline
1800 123 400
www.nationalsecurity.gov.au
NSW Rural Fire
1800 679 737
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
1800 880 176
esafety.gov.au
PHONE NUMBER
WEBSITE
Alcohol & Drug Information & Counselling Service (24 hours)
1800 422 599
yourroom.com.au/
Alcoholics Anonymous Australia
1300 222 222
www.aa.org.au/
Anaphylaxis Australia
1300 728 000
A
NAME
L M
Australian Childhood Foundation (counselling for children affected by abuse)
1800 176 453
www.childhood.org.au
Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN)
1800 1234 00
www.acorn.gov.au
Australian Drug Foundation
1300 85 85 84
www.druginfo.adf.org.au
B Beyond Blue
Life Line
N
O
1300 22 4636
www.beyondblue.org.au
Child Protection Helpline
132 111
www.community.nsw.gov.au
P
Crime Stoppers Hotline
1300 333 000
nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
Parent Line
1300 1300 52
www.parentline.org.au
Poisons Information Centre
131 126 (24 hours)
www.poisonsinfo.nsw.gov.au
13 7848 (13 QUIT)
quitnow.gov.au
Rape Crisis Centre
1800 424 017
www.nswrapecrisis.com.au
Rape & Domestic Violence Counselling Line
1800 737 732 / 1800 RESPECT
www.1800respect.org.au
C
D Dental Hospital Service (Emergency Only)
(02) 9293 3333
www.health.nsw.gov.auoralhealth
Department of Community Services (DOCS) Helpline
132 111 (24 hrs)
www.community.nsw.gov.au
Domestic Violence Line
1800 65 64 63
www.domesticviolence.nsw. gov.au
Domestic Violence Advocacy Service
1800-810-784
www.1800respect.org.au
Q Quitline – for counselling
R
Reachout
F
Relationships Australia
Family Drug Help
1300 660 068
www.familydrughelp.com.au
Family Drug Support Australia
1300 368 186 (24/7)
www.fds.org.au
Family Relationship Advice Line
1800 050 321
www.familyrelationships.gov.au
Fire & Rescue NSW
000
www.fire.nsw.gov.au
G Gender Centre (services for people with gender issues)
(02) 9569 2366
Headspace
(03) 9027 0100
Health Helpline (24/7)
1800 022 222
www.headspace.org.au
I I can Quit
13 7848 (13 QUIT)
www.icanquit.com.au
Indigenous Women's Legal Contact Line (Domestic Violence)
1800 639 784
www.wlsnsw.org.au
1800 600 700
www.fire.nsw.gov.au
J Juvenile Fire Awareness and Intervention Program
www.relationships.com.au
Salvation Army Care Line
13 72 58 / 13 SALVOS
salvos.org.au
State Emergency Service (SES)
132 500
www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Sexual Assault Crisis Line
1800 806 292
www.sacl.com.au
Suicide Call Back Service
1300 659 467 (24/7)
www.suicidecallbackservice. org.au
Sydney Childrens Hospital Randwick
(02) 9382 1111
www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au
The Childrens Hospital Westmead
(02) 9845 0000
www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au
Transcultural Mental Health Centre
(02) 9840 3767 (during business hours) Freecall for rural and remote areas of NSW: 1800 648 911
www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/ transcultural-mental-healthcentre
Translating and Interpreting Service
13 14 50 (interpreter over the telephone)
www.immi.gov.au/tis
1800 801 501
www.wlsnsw.org.au
S
T
W
K Kids Help Line
www.reachout.com 1300 364 277
www.gendercentre.org.au
H
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Office of the e-Safety Commissioner
1800 55 1800
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www.kidshelpline.com.au
Womens Legal Service NSW (Domestic Violence)
CONTENTS FOREWORDS Governor of NSW Chairperson NSW Police Legacy Useful Contacts PERSONAL SAFETY
1 2 4 6-9
Keeping Children Safe Help for parents and carers to create a safe home environment What is Child Abuse? Why does abuse happen? How do I know if a child is being abused? What can you do to help? How to decide if you need to report What happens once you make a report? Mandatory Reporters: How to Report and Support Contact your Child Wellbeing Unit Connect families to local supports Report Responding to and reporting risk of abuse and neglect Quick guide to using the Mandatory Reporting Guide SAFETY AT SCHOOL
11 - 13
Australian Student Wellbeing Framework Bullying What is bullying? What can I do if my child is being bullied? How do I know if my child is being bullied? What if my child has witnessed bullying? What if I think my child is displaying bullying behaviour? Help your child be resilient Beyond bullying What will my school have in place to deal with bullying? SAFETY AT HOME
14 - 25
Parent’s guide to online safety Cyberbullying I think my child is being bullied What to do Help and resources Door and Hinges Safety Button Battery Safety Water and Pool Safety for Children Toppling Furniture Falls from Windows and Balconies Blind and Curtain Cord Safety Home Pool Safety Basic First Aid Allergic Reactions Sprains & Strains DRSABCD Action Plan Bleeding First Aid for Burns and Scalds Burns and Scalds Preparing for Emergencies
HEALTH AND SAFETY
26 - 37
Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing What is children’s mental health? Should I be concerned? Responding to children who may be experiencing mental health difficulties What kinds of mental health difficulties do children experience? How to talk about the Coronavirus to your children Talking about scary stuff in the news Changes in Behaviour Advice for Parents Hygiene Tips for Parents and Guardians Food allergy or intolerance? What is an allergy? How common is allergy? What is Anaphylaxis? What are the signs of an allergic reaction? How to give an Epipen Dental health Tooth Decay Cleaning Teeth Tips to prevent dental disease Dental Emergencies Teeth Development Healthy kids The NSW Healthy School Canteen Strategy Australian Guide to Healthy Eating Asthma Diabetes Immunisation FIRE, FLOOD & STORM SAFETY 38 - 53 Fire Safety Keep Looking When Cooking Smoke Alarms Plan a Safe Escape Barbeque Safety Bush Fire Safety Prepare / Act / Survive Discuss, Prepare, Know, Keep What to do during a fire Emergency Information Fire Danger Rating Storm, Flood and Tsunami Safety Stormsafe Your emergency checklist Floodsafe Tsunamisafe STREET SMART Road Safety Keeping your children safe Pedestrian Safety RidingSafety Safety in Cars Seat Belt Safety What you must not do General safety in the car Driver distraction
55- 67
Safe travel Mobile phone use Kids in hot cars Driveway Safety Riding Safety School Bus Safety Light Rail Safety Train Safety Rail Crossing Safety Ferry Safety OUTDOOR SAFETY
69 -77
Sun Safety SLIP, SLOP, SLAP, SEEK, SLIDE Beach Safety Rip Currents Sun Safety and Heat Stroke Kids on Boats Wear a life jacket Safe and responsible boating Pets and Children Off-Road Motorcycle Safety Skateboards, Foot Scooters and Rollerblades Playground Safety Kids on farms Play safety Vehicle safety Farm water safety DRUG AWARENESS
78-79
Talking to your kids aged 15-17 Binge drinking – putting things in perspective Talking to your kids aged 9-14 Top 10 tips for parents
Publishing, CILTA AWAR by Associat Produced, published and distributed on behalf of NSW Police Legacy by: Associated Media Group Pty Ltd 174 Willoughby Road Crows Nest NSW 2065 T: 02 9437 5155 www.amgroup.net.au Special thanks to: NSW Police Force Fire & Rescue NSW NSW Rural Fire Service NSW Education & Communities eSafety Commissioner SES NSW NSW Health To support future editions of this handbook T: 02 9437 5155 E: cshb@amgroup.net.au Copyright © NSW Police Legacy Ltd
2nd Edition - 2021
DISCLAIMER: This publication is issued on terms and understanding that: (a) the publisher, NSW Police Legacy, authors and editors are not responsible for the results of any action taken or advice followed or for any error in or omission from any information printed in this publication; and (b) the publisher, NSW Police Legacy, authors and editors expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person, whether a purchaser or reader of this publication or not, in respect of anything, and of the consequences of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether wholly or partially, upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication.
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PERSONAL SAFETY Sexual abuse – Sexual abuse is when someone involves a child or young person in a sexual activity by using their power over them or taking advantage of their trust. Often children or young people are bribed or threatened physically and psychologically to make them participate in the activity. Sexual abuse is a crime.
KEEPING CHILDREN SAFE Learn more about children’s rights
Learn more about community supports for families
Learn more about the signs of abuse
Children and young people have a right to be safe in their own homes and in the community, and to live without violence and abuse. Children also have the right to be heard and protected from harm. Ensuring all children enjoy these rights is everyone’s job. HELP FOR PARENTS AND CARERS TO CREATE A SAFE HOME ENVIRONMENT If you think that you, or someone you know, could benefit from help with home life (such as parenting, safe relationships, or substance misuse), reach out to the many support services in your local area who are there to help families through tough times. A good place to start is Family Connect and Support (FCS). FCS links families with support and community resources to help create a happy home environment and to avoid crisis situations. www.familyconnectsupport.dcj.nsw.gov.au WHAT IS CHILD ABUSE? Child abuse and neglect is a crime, yet it continues to be an issue in Australia. There are different forms of child abuse. These include neglect, sexual, physical and emotional abuse. Neglect – Neglect is when a parent or caregiver cannot regularly give a child the basic things needed for his or her growth and development, such as food, clothing, shelter, medical and dental care, adequate supervision, and enough parenting and care.
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Physical abuse – Physical abuse is the intentional use of physical force against a child or young person that could potentially result in harm. It includes, but is not limited to, injuries which are caused by excessive discipline, severe beatings or shakings, cigarette burns, attempted strangulation and female genital mutilation. Physical abuse towards a child is a crime in NSW. For example, hitting a child or young person around the head or neck, or using a stick, belt or other object to discipline or punish a child or young person may be considered a crime. Emotional abuse or psychological harm – Serious psychological harm can occur where the behaviour of a parent or caregiver damages the confidence and self-esteem of a child or young person, resulting in serious emotional disturbance or psychological trauma. Although it is possible for ‘one off’ incidents to cause serious harm, in general it is the frequency, persistence and duration of the behaviour that is instrumental in defining the consequences for the child or young person. This can include a range of behaviours such as excessive criticism, withholding affection, exposure to domestic violence, intimidation or threatening behaviour. Why does abuse happen? There are many reasons why children or young people are at risk of abuse and neglect. For example: • their families do not have adequate support from relatives or the community • their parents are experiencing a lot of stress such as unemployment, illness, isolation or loneliness • their parents may not have experienced good parenting themselves • their parents may be alcohol or drug dependent or have mental health issues or there may be domestic violence in the household. How do I know if a child is being abused? There are common physical and behavioural signs that may indicate abuse or neglect. The presence of one of these signs does not necessarily mean abuse or neglect. Other things need to be considered,
PERSONAL SAFETY
such as the circumstances of the child, young person or family.
MANDATORY REPORTERS: HOW TO REPORT AND SUPPORT
What can you do to help? Children and young people will only be protected from abuse and neglect if responsible adults act on their behalf. Reporting your concerns about a child or young person’s safety or wellbeing is an important step in preventing or stopping the abuse and protecting children or young people from further harm. It also gives the Department of Community and Justice (DCJ) the chance to help families in situations where a child or young person may be at risk of significant harm.
Contact your Child Wellbeing Unit For NSW Education, Police and Health employees your Child Wellbeing Units (CWU) can be the first point of call when you have a concern for a child or young person. Your CWU can help you identify whether a case meets the statutory threshold of significant harm and how to report these concerns to the Child Protection Helpline if needed. CWUs can also help you identify possible services and interventions for vulnerable children and young people where statutory intervention is not warranted. If you are a mandatory reporter employed by a non-government organisation or a government agency without a CWU, you can use the Mandatory Reporter Guide to determine whether to report matters to the Child Protection Helpline.
How to decide if you need to report A child or young person is at risk of significant harm if there are current concerns for their safety, welfare or wellbeing because of one or more of the following: • Their basic needs are not met — for example, they don’t have enough food or clothing, or don’t have a safe or secure place to live • They are not receiving necessary medical care — for example, a child is very sick, but is not taken to a doctor • They are being physically abused or ill-treated — for example, where a child has bruises, fractures or other injuries from excessive discipline or other non-accidental actions • They are being sexually abused — for example, when a person uses their age, size, authority or position of trust to force the child into a sexual activity. • They are experiencing physical or psychological harm from domestic violence — for example, where a child could be injured by a punch intended for their mother, or a child can’t sleep at night because of the fear there will be violence in the home • They are suffering serious psychological harm — for example, a child being continually ignored What happens once you make a report? DCJ is the statutory agency responsible for assessing reports where a child or young person is or may be at risk of significant harm from abuse or neglect. What happens next depends on the information received by DCJ. If the child or young person is at risk of significant harm, we try to work with the family, other agencies and professionals to make sure they are safe. If we think a child or young person is in imminent danger of serious harm, DCJ may move them to a safe place or provide assistance which increases their level of safety. We involve the child or young person and their family as much as possible in decisions that affect them.
Find out who are mandatory reporters
Connect families to local supports As mandatory reporters you are in the unique position of being the eyes, ears and voice for children and young people. You have a statutory obligation to report suspected harm, but you may also be able to connect children and families to community services so they can thrive. As well as services you know of in your area, you could reach out to Family Connect and Support. It is a state-wide service that links families with support and community resources to make sure our children and young people are safe and well. Visit familyconnectsupport.dcj.nsw.gov.au to find local providers and to connect families to the right supports. Report Mandatory reporters should use the Mandatory Reporter Guide to help decide whether a child or young person is suspected to be at risk of significant
IF YOU THINK A CHILD OR YOUNG PERSON IS AT RISK Protecting children and young people from harm is everyone’s business. If you think a child or young person is at risk of significant harm from abuse or neglect, contact the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 (open 24 hours/7 day). Your report will be confidential. We won’t tell anyone who reported the abuse or neglect to us and you don’t have to tell us your name if you don’t want to. In an emergency, where there are urgent concerns for the child or young person’s health or life, call the police using the emergency triple zero line (000).
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To contact the Child Protection Helpline call
132 111 Mandatory reporters should first complete the Mandatory Reporter Guide at reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au
Make a difference. Become a carer. Do you have room in your heart and home to make a difference to a child’s life? More foster carers are needed across NSW. To find out what type of care would suit your family, contact us today. My Forever Family NSW is a government funded program designed to recruit, support, train and advocate for foster and kinship carers, guardians and adoptive parents from out-of-home care across the state.
START YOUR CARER JOURNEY WITH US w w w. m y f o reve r f a m i l y.o rg .a u 8
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PERSONAL SAFETY
harm before making a report to the Child Protection Helpline. The Mandatory Reporter Guide is online at: reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au Mandatory reporters can make non-imminent, suspected risk of significant harm reports to the Child Protection Helpline using eReporting or by phone. All urgent reports must be made by phone to the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111.
RESPONDING TO AND REPORTING RISK OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT This quick guide will assist you in using the Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG) when responding to and reporting risk of abuse and neglect. The MRG is online at: reporter.childstory.nsw.gov.au
Learn more about Mandatory Reporting
QUICK GUIDE TO USING THE MANDATORY REPORTING GUIDE STEP 1 – GET SUFFICIENT INFORMATION Get essential details to enter into the online MRG: • child or young person’s details (name, address, DOB, details of siblings) • details about what you are concerned about (date, type of harm or risk, information about the person who is considered to have contributed or caused to harm to the child or young person) • impact of what has happened on the child or young person • network of support around the child or young person. You can get this information by: • talking with the child or young person and any services working with them and their family • exchanging information with other prescribed bodies working with the child or young person and their family. You are permitted to do this under Chapter 16A of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998. STEP 2 – DECIDE WHAT TO DO Use all of the information available to you to appraise the risk, needs and strengths of the family. For mandatory reporters with access to a Child Wellbeing Unit (CWU), contact them to assist you with this appraisal. Controlled Health Service, and Affiliated Health Organisations), you can contact your Child Wellbeing Unit (CWU) for assistance with this appraisal. STEP 3 – USE THE MRG • If the outcome of the MRG is ‘Immediate Report to the Child Protection Helpline’ or ‘Report to the Child Protection Helpline’, contact the Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 and have the essential details from Step 1 & the outcome of the MRG ready. You can also make an eReport for non-immediate matters. • If the outcome of the MRG is ‘Refer to a Child Wellbeing Unit (CWU)’ or ‘Consult with a Professional/Service’ or ‘Referral’ or ‘Document and continue relationship /monitor’ – go to Step 4. • Even if a report to the Child Protection Helpline is required, proceed to Step 4. • It is recommended that mandatory reporters complete the MRG on each occasion they have concerns, regardless of their level of experience or expertise. Each circumstance is different and every child and young person is unique. STEP 4 – FIND LOCAL HELP Your services Consider what additional steps your service can take, including: • whether your service is best placed to discuss your concerns with the family • whether your service can offer to provide additional interventions or change your current interventions to further address your concerns. Beyond your service Explore appropriate support services for the child or young person and their family. Any of the following options can assist you: • Where you have access, call your CWU to discuss how you can appropriately assist the child or young person within the capacity of your role and to get advice about referral pathways. Call Health CWU on 1300 480 420 or call Education CWU on 9269 9400 • Contact your local Family Connect and Support service (www.familyconnectsupport.dcj.nsw.gov.au) who can help with parenting, domestic and family violence, mental health, financial stress, substance misuse and more. • Visit the Human Services Network (www.hsnet.nsw.gov.au) website to self-access a broad range of services. • Contact NSW Family Services Inc. (www.fams.asn.au) to access support to nongovernment, not-for-profit organisation staff working with vulnerable children and families..
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The Hub is where you can access the Australian Student Wellbeing Framework and is a space for educators, parents and students to find resources to build safe, inclusive and connected school communities that promote wellbeing and learning.
LEADERSHIP Visible leadership to inspire positive school communities
INCLUSION Inclusive and connected school culture
SUPPORT Wellbeing and support for positive behaviour
STUDENT VOICE PARTNERSHIPS Effective family and community partnerships
Authentic student participation
About Wellbeing As a parent you know that your child’s success at school is linked to their wellbeing. You want your child to be happy and well and to enjoy everything that school offers.
Wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. Parents have a significant role to play in laying the foundation for their child’s wellbeing from their earliest years. When your child feels connected to their family, peers and teachers they feel safe and secure and know they’ll be supported throughout their learning journey. Safe and trusting relationships create a positive learning environment where wellbeing can flourish. The Australian Student Wellbeing Framework supports you to work with the school to promote your child’s wellbeing and learning.
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SAFETY AT SCHOOL BULLYING Your child has the right to feel welcome and safe at school. We’re working hard to make sure our school communities are nurturing and supportive places where all students can learn and develop into caring, resilient and confident adults. WHAT IS BULLYING? It may seem obvious what bullying is, but there is a difference between students ‘not getting on’ and bullying each other. Learning how to resolve conflict and negotiate with people who have different personalities and opinions are important life skills that parents and schools need to help students develop. Bullying is repeated verbal, physical, social or psychological behaviour that is harmful and involves the misuse of power by an individual or group towards one or more persons. Cyberbullying refers to bullying through information and communication technologies. Bullying can involve humiliation, domination, intimidation, victimisation and all forms of harassment including that based on sex, race, disability, homosexuality or transgender. Bullying of any form or for any reason can have long term effects on those involved including bystanders. Bullying can come in many forms for example: • Being hit, tripped, kicked, pinched etc. • Being called names, teased, put down etc. • Being threatened, stalked, gestures etc. • Being ignored, having rumours spread about you, excluding someone etc. • Insulting someone in chat rooms, sending cruel or threatening emails/text messages; using the web, chat rooms or mobile phones to spread rumours or threaten someone or information about someone etc. All forms of bullying between students are taken seriously by NSW public schools. However, any school situation that is causing your child concern, whether or not it fits the definition of bullying, should be reported to the school. Although the term “bullying” has a specific meaning and a school’s Anti-bullying Plan sets out the processes for preventing and responding to student bullying, schools also have a range of policies and practices, including welfare and discipline policies that apply to student behaviour generally. What can I do if my child is being bullied? If your child is being bullied it is not always easy for you as a parent to know when and how to support.
The first step is to stay calm and try and get all the facts. While it may be a case of bullying, it might also simply be the result of poor communication by one or both children. Kids often speak before they think and misunderstandings happen easily, especially online. By taking the time to understand the situation and remaining calm, you are helping your child. Sometimes, as a first step, your child may just want some advice about things they could do the try to manage the situation. At other times it is important that action is taken immediately. It is important to: • Listen calmly to your child. • Show concern and support. • Let your child know that telling you about the bullying was the right thing to do. • Find out where and when it has been happening, who has been involved and if anyone else has seen it. • Discuss the things your child has already done to try to solve the problem and suggest other things your child might try. • Report the situation to your child’s school. • Work with your child’s school to solve the problem. • Encourage your child to report any further bullying incidents to a teacher they trust at the school. • Let your child know how much you disapprove of bullying and why. Technology has increased the ways bullying can happen. Mobile phones, emails, websites, chat rooms, social networking sites or instant messaging can all be used to bully others. If you believe your child is being cyberbullied, don’t ban them from the technology. Technology has an
Learn more about bullying
Watch a video on bullying
Download more information about bullying
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS BEING BULLIED? Some of the signs that a child is bullied may include: • unwillingness or refusal to go to school • not doing well at school • becoming withdrawn • being tearful • loss of confidence • sleeping problems • refusing to talk about what’s wrong If your child seems depressed, unusually upset or physically injured in some way and is unwilling to discuss it with you, consider talking to your school counsellor or your family doctor. Your child may benefit from specialised assistance.
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SAFETY AT SCHOOL
increasingly important role for young people both for their social development and in their learning. Discourage them from rereading the upsetting messages or comments because it compounds the hurt and throws the whole incident out of perspective. Do try to find ways for them to enjoy themselves away from the computer, doing the things that make them feel good about themselves. Children often worry about being labelled “a dobber” and beg parents not to tell the school. However, bullying is a serious matter which is unlikely to be resolved if it’s ignored. Schools are able to manage the situation and provide effective support when they have all the facts. As a parent or caregiver, you have an important part to play in helping your child, and the school deal with bullying. Don’t approach the other students involved. No parent will appreciate you reprimanding their child and it will always make the situation much worse than if you remain calm and go through the right channels by contacting the school.
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Your school’s Anti-bullying Plan will outline how bullying can be reported at your school, but you can always make an appointment with your school principal. You may like to take your partner or a friend with you to the meeting, and that’s normally fine too. Just let the principal know. If you need an interpreter, the school can arrange that. Be sure to tell them when you make the appointment. What if my child has witnessed bullying? Tell the school. Bullying also hurts other students as well as the student who has experienced the bullying. Bystanders who observe bullying or are pressured to join in are also likely to be affected and will need support. It’s important for all children to understand that bullying isn’t okay, even if they are not directly involved. If your child has witnessed bullying you can help them, and help to keep other children safe by encouraging them to ask a teacher for help. This is very important if anyone’s safety is
SAFETY AT SCHOOL
in jeopardy. Students should always think about their own safety and the safety of other people when deciding what to do. You could also encourage your child to do any one or a combination of the following depending on the circumstances: • Tell the person doing the bullying that what they are doing is bullying. • Tell the person doing the bullying to stop. • Refuse to join in with the bullying. • Tell other bystanders not to encourage the person doing the bullying. • Support the person who is being bullied. • Encourage the person being bullied to tell their parents or a teacher. What if I think my child is displaying bullying behaviour? Discovering that your child has been displaying bullying behaviour can come as a huge shock for parents. Your first reaction may be defensive. However, children who engage in bullying behaviour also need support to learn how to behave appropriately. Stay calm and discuss the issue with the principal of your child’s school. Work together with the school to make it clear to your child that bullying isn’t okay and to develop support strategies for your child. It may also be useful to make an appointment with the school counsellor. Help your child be resilient Kids can sometimes focus on what’s going wrong in their lives, and be less aware of the other friends, hobbies, sports and activities they enjoy. A few hours with friends can remind your child that there are good people around who care for and support them. Beyond bullying Sometimes bullying or cyberbullying can involve criminal behaviour such as violence, threats, intimidation or inciting violence. If you or your child has received threats of physical or sexual violence or has been physically attacked you should immediately consider contacting your local police as well as your school for assistance. The school may report a matter to the police as well. What will my school have in place to deal with bullying? Parents and schools work together to help students develop good citizenship and the communication and relationship skills that help prevent bullying behaviour. At school your child will be learning about their rights and responsibilities and will be supported to develop the skills to treat others with respect,
communicate their ideas and feelings appropriately and deal with conflict. The NSW Department of Education requires all NSW government schools to have an Anti-bullying Plan that complies with the Bullying: Preventing & Responding to Student Bullying in Schools Policy. You can ask for a copy of your school’s Plan from your school. Many schools also make their Anti-bullying Plan available on their websites. The school’s Anti-bullying Plan will explain what is considered to be bullying behaviour and how that behaviour is viewed by the school. It will outline what responsibilities schools, students and parents have to prevent and respond to bullying behaviour, how bullying can be reported and what will happen when it is. Your school will take action when it has been reported that a student has been bullied by another student at school or during a school activity that is held away from school. The school can also take action in response to bullying behaviour between students outside of school hours or off the school premises where there is a clear and close connection between the school and the conduct of the students. The response of the school to a reported incident of bullying or cyberbullying will depend on the details of the particular incident and may range from support to disciplinary action. Remember the school will need time to investigate and to talk to teachers and other students. All NSW public schools have access to school counsellors who can help children deal with problems and become more resilient. School counsellors are experienced teachers who have a degree in psychology and graduate qualifications in school counselling. They can help students who are feeling sad or anxious, or are having difficulties in their relationships with other students. School counsellors may work across more than one school, so you will need to speak with the principal to organise an appointment for your child.
CONTACTS PARENT LINE Parent Line is a telephone counselling, information and referral service for parents of children ages 0 to 18, who live in New South Wales. Parents, grandparents and carers anywhere in the state can call Parent Line on 1300 1300 52 for no more than the cost of a local call. www.parentline.org.au KIDS HELPLINE Tel 1800 55 1800 - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for advice on child health and parenting. www.kidshelpline.com.au
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SAFETY AT HOME A GUIDE TO ONLINE BULLYING FOR PARENTS AND CARERS
Learn more about Cyberbullying
Online bullying can have a devastating impact on young people, whose online life is a key part of their identity and how they interact socially. Cyberbullying behaviour takes many forms, such as sending abusive messages, hurtful images or videos, nasty online gossip, excluding or humiliating others, or creating fake accounts in someone’s name to trick or humiliate them.
I THINK MY CHILD IS BEING BULLIED
Watch video about the signs to watch for cyberbullying and online drama
Your child may not tell you if they are experiencing bullying behaviour online because of a fear it might make things worse for them or they may lose access to their devices and the internet. I think my child is being bullied Your child may not tell you if they are experiencing bullying behaviour online because of a fear it might make things worse for them or they may lose access to their devices and the internet. Signs to watch for: • being upset after using the internet or their mobile phone • changes in personality, such as becoming more withdrawn, anxious, sad or angry • appearing more lonely or distressed • unexpected changes in friendship groups • a decline in their school work • changes in their sleep patterns • avoidance of school or clubs • a decline in their physical health • becoming secretive about their online activities andmobile phone use.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD IS BEING CYBERBULLIED TRY TO RESIST IMMEDIATELY TAKING AWAY THEIR DEVICE Removing your child’s phone or computer could be really unhelpful. Cutting off their online access does not teach them about online safety or help build resilience. It could alienate them from their peers, and it also removes an essential tool for them to communicate and connect with friends.
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STAY CALM AND OPEN - DON’T PANIC You want your child to feel confident that you’re not immediately going to get upset, angry or anxious if they tell you about the situation. You want them to know they can talk to you and feel heard. The best way to do this is make sure you have an open dialogue from the beginning. Talk to them without being judgemental or angry, and make them feel like they can come to you with anything, without fear of being punished. LISTEN, THINK, PAUSE Gauge the scale of the problem. Does it exist in a peer group or is it more widespread? Is it a few remarks here and there? Or is it more serious? Empathise with your child and let them know that you understand how they feel. How badly is it affecting your child personally? If the bullying itself is not very intense, but your child seems quite seriously affected, this could be a symptom of something larger. In this case you may need to seek help, from a school counsellor, a helpline, or an external professional. Try not to respond immediately. Take some time to consider the best course of action. Reassure your child you are working on it and will come together again very soon to talk through some options. Let them know you are there if they feel like they need to talk in the meantime. ACT TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD IF NECESSARY If your child is being threatened, or if they indicate a wish to harm themselves, you should get professional help. Call Triple Zero (000) immediately, if their physical safety is at risk. Contact a counselling and support service like Kids Helpline. EMPOWER YOUR CHILD Wherever possible, try to build your child’s confidence and help them make wise decisions for themselves, rather than telling them what to do. If you feel they may be struggling to open up to you, connect them with other trusted adults or with professional support.
SAFETY AT HOME
COLLECT EVIDENCE Before you or your child block someone or delete posts or other bullying material, take screenshots and collect evidence including dates and times. The evidence may be useful if the bullying behaviour continues and you need a record of how long it has been going on. You may also need evidence if you want to report it. However, if the bullying material involves sexualised images, be aware that possessing or sharing such images of people under 18 may be a crime, even if you have just taken a screenshot for evidence purposes. For information about relevant laws in Australia, visit Youth Law Australia. You can also read our advice about sharing intimate images in sending nudes and sexting. MANAGE CONTACT WITH OTHERS Advise your child not to retaliate or respond to bullying messages, as sometimes people say hurtful things just to get a response and it could make things worse. If they have already responded, encourage them not to respond further. Help your child to block or unfriend the person sending the messages to limit contact with them. Help your child change their privacy settings to restrict who can see their posts and profile page. Advice on privacy settings is available in The eSafety Guide. Encourage your child to ask their friends whether mean content is still being posted and if so, ask them to report it. REPORT Many social media services, games, apps and websites make it easy to report content posted by other people. Our The eSafety Guide has links to report abusive content and online safety information. If serious cyberbullying is affecting your child and you need help to get the material removed from a social media service or other platform, we can help. You can make a cyberbullying report to eSafety on your child’s behalf if they are under 18 years of age. It may be useful for you to read the frequently asked questions about making a report and information about how we handle cyberbullying reports CONSIDER SEEKING SUPPORT FROM YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL Your child’s school may have a policy in place to address cyberbullying and may be able to provide support, whether or not the bullying is from a student at your child’s school.
With your child’s agreement, talk to their teacher or the school counsellor. ENCOURAGE POSITIVE CONNECTIONS AND COPING STRATEGIES Try to keep your child engaged with interests like sports or dance that connect them with other young people outside school, or with activities that involve extended family. These things will also remind your child that they are loved and lovable. Help your child identify tools they can use to work through the current situation, as well as help build resilience for any future challenges. Check out good habits start young for some tips. STAY AWARE Check in with your child from time-to-time about how they are feeling. Keep an eye on their eating and sleeping habits, their ability to concentrate and make decisions and their overall mood. If you notice any changes that concern you, get help for your child through a counselling or online support service.
I AM WORRIED MY CHILD MIGHT BE BULLYING OTHERS If your child is treating others badly, is dismissive of their feelings or targeting or intentionally excluding a particular child or group, they could be seen as someone who bullies. If they also socialise online there is a chance they may be bullying that person or group online too. Finding out your child is bullying others can be very painful but you can help them to change, with your guidance and positive engagement.
Watch video about positively engaging with your child to change their behaviour
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Empowering young Australians to be safe, responsible and positive online Through our Optus Digital Thumbprint workshops, we support digital education in Australian primary and secondary schools. Programs are fun, interactive and free to schools and students. Topics include: 1. Cyberbullying 2. Cyber Security 3. Digital Discernment 4. Digital Identity 5. Digital Balance Optus Digital Thumbprint offers age-appropriate and curriculum aligned workshops, delivered by one of our facilitators either face-to-face or via digital platform. Find out more at digitalthumbprint.com.au
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SAFETY AT HOME HERE ARE SOME STRATEGIES TO TRY • Talk to your child, in a way they can relate to, about how it feels to be left out or teased. Use examples. Build empathy — what it might feel like to be the other person. • Encourage your child to be honest about their behaviour, take responsibility for it and apologise to those they have bullied. Perhaps show them the page for kids How do I know if I’m being mean online? or for young people I’ve been called a bully. • Talk about accepting differences and how to deal with people that annoy them. Give examples from your own life such as working with a difficult colleague. • Explain there will be consequences for them if they treat others badly — for example, if they are rude they need to apologise and lose access to something they enjoy. Remember to also praise any change for the good so they start afresh. • Identify activities that make your child feel good about themselves such as membership of a sports club or an art class, where they can be successful and have fun. • Praise your child’s strengths and any behaviour changes they try to make. • Practice treating others well at home and let them know when they are being kind. • Spend one-on-one time with your child such as watching a movie, playing sport together or cooking with them. • Talk to your child’s school about their academic achievement, learning style and abilities and whether they need additional support. • Work with the school on ways to develop your child’s social skills.
GOOD HABITS START YOUNG Parents and carers play an important role in helping children to develop digital intelligence — the social, emotional and practical skills needed to successfully navigate the digital world. Even for preschool children, it is never too early to instil good habits, and as your child gets older it is useful to keep reminding them of these basic digital intelligence principles: respect, empathy, critical thinking, responsible behaviour and resilience. These are also principles you can emphasise with your child when things go wrong. HOW TO BUILD DIGITAL INTELLIGENCE • Promote respectful communication • Encourage empathy • Teach them to question • Encourage safe and responsible behaviour • Help them build resilience
Learn more about building digital intelligence
Read the guide to sending nudes and sexting for parents and carers
MY CHILD HAS SHARED INAPPROPRIATE IMAGES If your child has shared an intimate image of someone else without their permission • try to get the full story • explain why it is a problem • try to stop the image being further shared • help your child to repair any harm For more information, visit www.esafety.gov.au
HELP AND RESOURCES
Check out the following support services and resources to help you keep your family safe online. The Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner esafety.gov.au The Office’s website contains information and related links to support parents in keeping kids safe online. Resources include practical, action focussed advice, videos, games, support, and research-based information, and everything is free of charge. School support Many schools have detailed policies and procedures in place to help support children online, including how to manage issues like cyberbullying, sexting and
other online concerns. The Department of Education policies in each state provide information for students, teachers, parents and the broader community to help raise awareness and counter the inappropriate use of technology. For more information, contact your child’s school. eHeadspace eheadspace.org.au eHeadspace is a confidential, free and secure space where young people aged 12 to 25 or their family can chat, email or speak on the phone with a qualified youth mental health professional.
Parentline parentline.com.au or phone 1300 30 1300 Parentline provides a counselling, information and referral service for Parents that operates 7days a week between 8am-10pm.
Online counselling If you suspect or know that a child is being negatively impacted by things happening to them online, consider seeking professional support for them.
Lifeline lifeline.org.au or phone 13 11 14 Lifeline provides free 24hour crisis counselling and information about support services.
Kids Helpline kidshelpline.com.au or phone 1800 55 1800 Kids Helpline service provides free, confidential online counselling for children and young people. Kids Helpline also provides young people experiencing problems online with free and private web chat counselling.
Crime Stoppers crimestoppers.com.au or phone 1800 333 000 Crimestoppers or your local police can assist with concerns about children’s personal safety.
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SAFETY AT HOME
DOORS AND HINGES SAFETY
Learn more about doors and hinges safety
Doors, hinges and jammed finger injuries Children under five years are particularly prone to jammed finger injuries. When children get their fingers jammed in doors and hinges, they can end up with crushed, fractured and even amputated fingers. The hinge side of the door often causes the worst injuries, especially for children aged 1-2 years. Older children tend to hurt themselves more often in the opening or handle side of the door. Finger protection strips and door guards More children are injured by the hinge side of the door than the handle side. Finger protection strips can help to prevent these injuries. They’re long flexible strips that you can install along the length of a door’s hinge side. They stop children from putting their fingers in the hinge side. Many finger protection strips don’t affect the
appearance of your home, are easily installed and don’t change the way your doors work. You can find out about these products at child safety centres at children’s hospitals or your local hardware shop. You can also ask about putting finger protection strips in place at your child’s kindergarten, child care centre or school and classroom. To prevent finger jams on the handle side of the door, you can use simple and cheap door guards. These are U-shaped, soft, flexible pieces of foam that clip onto the top or side edge of the door and stop it from fully closing. More ways to prevent jammed finger injuries from doors and hinges Here are more ideas to stop little fingers and hands getting jammed in doors and other places. CHECK • Check that your child’s hands are well out of the way before opening and closing doors, including car doors. • Check that your child’s fingers aren’t in the way before closing windows in the car. TEACH • Teach your child not to slam doors, and not to play around them. • Teach your child to keep their fingers away from the hinge side of doors. PROTECT • Drape towels over tops of doors to keep them ajar. • Place hook-and-eye latches high on doors, and/ or wedges under doors to stop them closing on their own. • Use doorstops to hold doors open and prevent them from slamming shut. Doorstops and weighted closing systems can stop doors from slamming suddenly. • Install slow-release rather than spring-operated door closers to prevent doors slamming.
Jammed finger injuries often involve another person, especially another child – for example, a child playing with an older sibling. The children try to close the door on each other, and one of them ends up with a finger jammed in the door.
For more information, visit: raisingchildren.net.au
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ulceration somewhere in the upper or lower digestive system.
you susp Go to the SAFETY AT HOMEdepartm Keep all How is a swallowed button battery diagnosed? ie; in a ch Your child may need to have an x-ray of the appropriate atleast 1 area to locate the battery. Share th
BUTTON BATTERIES
Are button batteries dangerous? Swallowing any button battery, old or new, can Learn more cause life threatening injuries and even death, about the especially if it becomes stuck in the oesophagus dangers of (food pipe). Batteries which become stuck in the button batteries nose or ears can also cause local burns. When swallowed, the left over electrical current in a button battery reacts with moisture to produce a strong alkali chemical. The chemical can cause serious internal burns and bleeding. The batteries • Keep spare batteries locked away, out of reach. can also leak chemicals which can cause serious • Throw old button batteries away carefully, in an burns. The coin shaped batteries are easily caught in outside bin, out of reach of children. Watch a video on button the oesophagus, and when stuck can start to cause battery safety Children © The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick and Kaleidoscope damage very quickly (within 2 hours). There may be Remember no early symptoms. • Call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 if you suspect a battery has been swallowed. Who is at risk? • Go to the nearest hospital emergency Young children are at most risk of poisoning from department. button battery ingestion. Young children are curious • Keep all button batteries out of reach of children and like to explore by putting everything in their ie; in a child resistant locked cupboard that is mouth. This leads to more accidental ingestions. atleast 1.5metres above the ground. A toddler’s smaller body size also means they are • Share this information with family and friends. more likely to have a button battery caught in the oesophagus, causing serious damage. How is a swallowed button battery diagnosed? Your child may need to have an x-ray of the appropriate area to locate the battery. What are the symptoms of a child who has swallowed a button battery? Children often swallow button batteries without anyone knowing. Symptoms can include chest pain, coughing, choking, vomiting, drooling, decreased appetite or refusal to eat, fever, abdominal pain and general discomfort. Spitting blood or bloodstained saliva or having very dark stained or black bowel motions, can indicate bleeding or ulceration somewhere in the upper or lower digestive system. How can you prevent children from swallowing button batteries? • Keep button batteries and all other batteries in a child resistant locked cupboard that is atleast 1.5 metres above ground, out of reach of children. • Check that all remotes, toys and products containing button batteries have a screw to secure them. If the batteries are not secured in with a screw, keep out of reach of children. You can also secure the battery compartment with strong tape. • Buy new batteries that are in child resistant packaging ie: the packets need to be opened with scissors.
FIRST AID FIRST AID FOR SWALLOWED BUTTON BATTERIES • If your child is having any difficulty breathing, call 000 immediately. • Call the Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26. • Take your child immediately to the nearest Emergency Department for assessment and treatment. • Do not try to make your child vomit. • Do not let your child eat or drink while awaiting medical advice.
If you know or just suspect that your child has swallowed a button battery you must act immediately.
Source: The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick and Kaleidoscope Children, Young People and Families.
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SAFETY AT HOME
WATER AND POOL SAFETY FOR CHILDREN Drowning is the number one cause of death for children under the age of five. Drowning can occur quickly and quietly, without any warning. Whether at home, visiting family and friends, or on holiday, it is important to always actively supervise your child at all times in or near water. Fast Facts • It only takes 5cm of water for a child to drown. • 10-20% of children who survive a drowning incident will suffer some form of brain damage. • For every child who dies from drowning, 10 children are hospitalised for non-fatal drowning. For more information on water and pool safety for children visit the following websites: NSW Swimming Pool Laws Sydney Children’s Hospital Network Raising Children’s Network Kidsafe NSW
Here are some tips to make sure your children are safe:
Pool Safety
Water Safety • Children should be supervised at all times in and around water. There should be a capable adult swimmer continuously watching and within arm’s reach at all times. Never leave a child in charge of other children. • Always stay with and hold your baby when in the bath, shower or near any water, even if the phone or doorbell rings. • Ensure there is a safe play area which restricts children’s access to water when you are near dams, rivers, creeks, open drains, fish ponds and water tanks. • Learn CPR by enrolling in a course and make sure you keep your skills up to date, in case of any emergencies. • Make sure you can swim well, or attend swimming classes if you are not confident in the water. • Enrol your child in water familiarisation and swimming lessons. Many children can learn to swim by the age of four or five.
• Display a CPR sign near the pool in case of an emergency. • Fence the pool correctly: o A standard pool fence should be at least 1.2m high, with vertical bars less than 10cm apart. If there are any climbable horizontal bars, these should be at least 90cm apart and any gaps under the fence should be less than 10cm. o There should be no climbable objects, such as trees, furniture or BBQs within 90cm of the pool barrier, to make sure that children can’t climb over the fence. o The pool gate should swing outwards, away from the pool area, be self-closing and automatically lock when it closes. The latch should be at least 150cm off the ground. • Make sure portable pools have a secure fence as required by NSW Law and always empty and store them upright when not in use.
TOPPLING FURNITURE
Learn how to anchor your furniture
Watch a video on Toppling furniture safety - anchor it and protect a child
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Why Anchor It? Small children have died or suffered serious injuries from unstable furniture. Small children can be trapped under furniture; unable to breathe or be hit/struck by falling furniture. You can prevent death or injury to small children when choosing and securing furniture in your home. There are simple ways to prevent death or serious injury to small children when choosing and securing furniture in your home by anchoring furniture. Buy Safe • Purchase low-set furniture or furniture with sturdy, stable and broad bases. • Look for furniture that comes with safety information or equipment for anchoring it to the walls. • Test the furniture in the shop—make sure it is stable. For example, pull out the top drawers of a chest of drawers and apply a little pressure to see how stable it is; make sure the drawers do not fall out easily.
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Use Safe • Attach, mount, bolt or otherwise secure furniture to walls and floors. • Do not put heavy items on top shelves of bookcases. • Place televisions at the back of cabinets or secure them to the wall. • Discourage small children from climbing on furniture. • Do not put tempting items such as favourite toys on top of furniture that encourage children to climb up and reach. • Do not place unstable furniture near where children play. • Put locking devices on all drawers to prevent children opening them and using them as steps. For more information on toppling furniture, visit www.productsafety.gov.au/anchorfurniture
SAFETY AT HOME
FALLS FROM WINDOWS AND BALCONIES Children are admitted to hospital each year, with serious injuries, as a result of falling from a window or balcony. These falls often happen in the child’s own home, over the warmer months when families leave windows and doors to balconies, open both during the day and at night. Children aged from one to five years are most at risk, as they are naturally curious, but lack the ability to recognise danger.
WINDOW SAFETY How are children injured? • Children may fall out of windows if they are able to climb on furniture to reach the window, or if they are jumping or playing on a bed near an open window. • Injuries resulting from children falling from windows range from cuts and bruises to head injuries, broken limbs and even death. How common are these injuries? Of the children who have presented to CHW: • 80% had significant or severe injuries; • 80% had fallen more than two metres; • 3 out of 5 cases admitted to hospital were boys; • 80% were under 5 years of age; • 50% of these falls involved furniture near the window. Remember: • Beds and other furniture should be kept away from windows, so that children cannot climb up to windows. • Children should be taught to play away from windows. • Where possible, open windows from the top. • Do not rely on flyscreens to prevent a child from falling out of a window. Falls Prevention Warning labels are available for purchase via the Australian Glass & Window Association • All windows, where the floor level below the window is 2m above ground level, should have window locks/latches fitted to stop them opening more than 12.5cm, or guards should be installed to protect the opening. • Children should always be supervised.
balcony floor. • Children may fall off the balcony if they are able to climb over the balcony balustrade. For example, horizontal rails in balustrades allow children to climb over balustrades. Objects such as pot plants or outdoor furniture, placed next to balustrades may also be used as ladders to climb on.
Learn more about Falls from Windows and Balconies
How common are these injuries? Of the children who have presented to CHW, approx • 75% were under 5 years of age; • 40% occurred in summer; • 3 out of 5 cases admitted to hospital were boys. Remember: • Make sure that your balcony or stair balustrade (railing) is at least 1m high and that vertical bars are no more than 12.5cm apart (use a ruler to measure the gaps between your vertical balustrade posts). • Your balustrade should have no horizontal or near horizontal parts that would allow children to climb. • All furniture, pot plants and other climbable objects should be kept away from the edge of balconies. • Be aware of furniture that is light enough for children to drag to the balcony edge. • Check balustrades regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. • Supervise your children while they are on the balcony. • Keep doors leading to balconies locked so that children cannot gain access to them. • Do not allow children to play on stairs. • Install stair gates at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent young children from gaining access to them. Source: The Children’s Hospital at Westmead
BALCONY SAFETY A balcony is a platform above ground level that comes out from the w¬¬all of a building. If it is more than 1m above ground level it must be surrounded by a balustrade. How are children injured? • Children may get their head, arms or legs caught in the space between balustrade openings. • Babies may fall through balustrade openings if the gaps are too wide. • Children may trip on steps or doorframes leading to the balcony and fall on the hard surface of the
Children can fall o ut of a window which is o pen more tha n 12.5cm , even if a fly scre en is pre sent.
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SAFETY AT HOME
Steps for protecting children Take these four simple steps to ensure that blind Learncords/chains more and curtain are out of reach of children, particularly from children about Blind and under six.
Curtain 1. Check yourSafety blind and curtain cords Check for loose or looped cords that your child can reach from the floor or by climbing on furniture. Immediately tie cords out of reach and move away any furniture children might climb on to reach them.
protecting children
Do this anywhere you are staying, including mple stepsontoholiday. ensure that blind /chains are2.out of reach children, Secure yourofcords out of reach children under six. Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing nd and curtaincords cordsfrom a hardware store or curtain and blind shop. se or looped cords that your
h from the floor or screws by climbing Use to fix each cleat or tensioning device in a place that is out of reach of children.
e cords out ofNever reachsecure and move these devices with materials that ture children might climb onato may fail when load is placed on them, such as double-sided tape or glue. you are staying, including
ords out of reach
ensioning devices for securing hardware store or curtain and fix each cleat or tensioning device is out of reach of children.
these devices with materials that a load is placed on them, such as tape or glue.
BLIND AND CURTAIN CORD SAFETY 1. Check your blind and curtain cords a Check for loose or looped cords that your child can reach from the floor or by climbing on furniture. a Immediately tie cords out of reach and move away any furniture children might climb on to reach them. a Do this anywhere you are staying, including on holiday. 2. Secure your cords out of reach a Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing cords from a hardware store or curtain and blind shop. a Use screws to fix each cleat or tensioning device in a place that is out of reach of children. x Never secure these devices with materials that may fail when a load is placed on them, such as doublesided tape or glue. If you cannot fix your unsafe cords and chains out of reach yourself, get a reliable tradesperson to do it for you. If you are renting your home, seek help from your landlord or agent.
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3. Choose safe blinds and curtains Buy new curtains and blinds which: a comply with the national mandatory standard a have warning labels to remind you of dangers to children a provide a way to secure cords/chains so there are no loops or strands that children can reach, or a operate without exposed cords/chains. 4. Keep children away from all cords/chains a Move anything a young child can sit in, stand or climb on (like cots, highchairs, beds, sofas, tables, chairs and bookshelves) away from cords/ chains—even those tied around a cleat, as your child may be able to untie them. x Do not let children play near cords/chains they can reach. x Never leave children alone in a room with cords/chains they can reach. For more information contact ACCC & BMAA
SAFETY AT HOME
HOME POOL SAFETY The home pool environment is often a place of fun and enjoyment. However, home pools are a location with a high risk of drowning, particularly for children under five years of age. Drowning risks around the home Home pools and spas are obvious drowning hazards. But there are many other items and areas which present a drowning threat to young children around the home. Buckets, bathtubs, eskies (coolers), fountains, fishponds, drains, inflatable pools, and even pet bowls all pose a significant drowning risk especially to younger children. It is crucial that these are emptied, covered, put away and not left where they can fill up with water. Most toddler drowning deaths occur when parents’ attention is divided. Other siblings, preparing meals, and phone calls are just a few of the many distractions that can interfere with a parent’s supervision. Children need constant supervision when they’re in, on, or around the water. If you’re at a party or gathering don’t assume that someone is watching your child or children. It is all too possible that no one is. Nominate a designated ‘child supervisor’ and rotate the supervision responsibilities regularly. Portable Pools Portable swimming pools take several forms and include inflatable pools, pools incorporating a canvas or flexible plastic liner attached to a frame, and hard plastic pools such as wading pools. Depths vary from less than 150mm to over one metre. Portable pools pose a serious drowning risk to small children. Even with very little water, it only takes seconds for a child to drown in a portable pool. They also present a risk because owners are generally not aware of the need in most States and Territories to fence a portable pool that is 300mm deep or more. Children have also drowned in portable pools that have not been emptied and put away after use. Young children are at risk of drowning in portable pools for a number of reasons. Young children are naturally fascinated by water and are top heavy so when they lean over to look into water or reach for an object they can easily topple over and drown in just a few centimetres of water. Young children are unable to understand the concept of danger and may have difficulty in understanding that water could cause them harm. Childhood drowning is a silent event as children generally do not cry out for help. • Check with your local council for fencing requirements.
• Make sure you always actively supervise children within arms’ reach whenever they are in or around the water. • Never rely on older children to supervise younger children, no matter how confident you are in their ability. • For smaller pools ensure they are emptied and put away after use. • When not in use, store the pool securely out of reach of young children. • Ensure the pool cannot fill with rain water or water from sprinklers. • Don’t exceed the number of adults or children the pool can safely hold. Pool Fencing Regulations Backyard pools represent a major cause of drowning among children under 5. The passage and enforcement of home pool fencing regulations, the most demanding of which require four sided isolation fencing and mandate regular inspections, has greatly reduced the rate of drowning in home pools. For more information on pool safety visit royallifesaving. com.au/programs/home-pool-safety.
Learn more about Pool Safety
Watch a video about Pool Safety
Download the Home Pool Safety Checklist
Drowning happens quickly and silently! Always keep watch over your children at home. www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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SAFETY AT HOME
BASIC FIRST AID ALLERGIC REACTIONS
Signs & Symptoms • Swelling and redness of the skin. • Itchy, raised rash (live hives). • Swelling of the throat. • Wheezing and/or coughing. • Rapid, irregular pulse. • Tightness in the chest. • Headache. • Vomiting and/or abdominal pain. • Dizziness or unconsciousness. MANAGEMENT 1. Follow DRSABCD : • Check for Danger • Check for Response • Send for help • Clear the Airway • Check for Breathing • Start CPR chest compression 2. If the patient is carrying an adrenaline autoinjector, it should be used at once. Let them administer the adrenaline autoinjector themselves, or ask them if they require assistance to do so. 3. Call 000 for an ambulance. 4. Keep patient in lying or sitting position. Observe and record pulse and breathing.
SPRAINS & STRAINS It can be difficult to tell whether the injury is a fracture, dislocation, sprain or strain. If in doubt, always treat as a fracture. Signs & symptoms Sprain • intense pain • restricted mobility • rapid development of swelling and bruising. Strain • sharp, sudden pain in region of the injury • loss of power • muscle tenderness. WHAT TO DO 1. Follow DRSABCD. 2. Follow the RICE management plan: • REST the patient and the injured part. • Apply ICEPACK (cold compress) wrapped in a wet cloth to the injury for 15 minutes every 2 hours for 24 hours, then for 15 minutes every 4 hours for 24 hours. • Apply COMPRESSION elastic bandage firmly to extend well beyond the injury. • ELEVATE the injured part. 3. Seek medical attention if no improvement.
DRSABCD ACTION PLAN
In an emergency call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance
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D R
DANGER
Ensure the are is safe for yourself, others and the patient
RESPONSE
Check for response – ask name – squeeze shoulders No response Response Make comfortable Check for injuries Monitor response
S A
SEND for help
Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance or ask another person to make the call
AIRWAY
Open mouth – if foreign material present Place in recovery position Clear airway with fingers Open airway by tilting head with chin lift
B
BREATHING
Check for breathing – look, listen, feel Not normal breathing Normal breathing Start CPR Place in recovery position Monitor breathing
C D
CPR
Start CPR – 30 chest compressions: 2 breaths Continue CPR until help arrives or patient recovers
DEFIBRILLATION Apply defibrillator if available and follow voice prompts
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
SAFETY AT HOME
BLEEDING
BURNS & SCALDS
For severe external bleeding: • wear gloves, if possible, to prevent infection • do not apply a tourniquet • if an object is embedded in or protruding from a wound apply pressure either side of the wound and place pads around it before bandaging • give nothing by mouth.
Any child who has received any kind of burn should be taken immediately to a doctor. Severe burns can lead to shock and major infection if not treated correctly. Burns (scalds) can be caused by hot liquid, food, vapour or steam. They are among the most serious, painful and long-term injuries. Hot drinks account for about 42 per cent of all child scald injuries, hot foods and oils about 13 per cent and hot water 45 per cent.
WHAT TO DO Unconscious casualty 1. Follow DRSABCD. Conscious casualty 1. Follow DRSABCD. 2. Lie the casualty down and remove or cut their clothing to expose the wound. 3. Apply direct pressure over the wound using a pad or your hands (use gloves if available). Instruct the casualty to do this if possible. 4. Squeeze the wound edges together if possible. 5. Raise and support the injured part above the level of the heart. Handle gently if you suspect a fracture. 6. Apply a pad over the wound if not already in place and secure by bandaging over the padded wound. 7. If bleeding is still not controlled, leave initial pad in place and apply a second pad and secure with a bandage. 8. Check circulation below wound. 9. Ensure an ambulance has been called.
FIRST AID FOR BURNS AND SCALDS 1. Ensure it is safe to approach the patient. 2. Extinguish burning clothing – smother it with a blanket, jacket or use water. In the case of a scald, quickly remove wet clothing from the affected area. 3. Hold the burnt area under cold running water until the skin returns to normal temperature – do this for at least 20 minutes. 4. Remove jewellery and clothing from burnt area – leave it if stuck. 5. Cover the injury with a non-adherent burns dressing – if you don’t have one, use aluminium foil, plastic wrap or a wet clean dressing. 6. Seek medical aid urgently. When to seek medical advice: In the case of a child being burned, you should always consult a doctor immediately. Extensive burns are dangerous and may be fatal. For adults, you should seek medical aid if: • The burn is deep, even if the patient feels no pain. • A superficial burn is larger than a 20-cent piece. • The burn involves the airway, face, hands or genitals. • You are unsure of the severity of the burn.
Learn more first aid facts from St John Ambulance
Beware the hot tap 80 per cent of all hot tap water scalds occur in the bathroom. More than a third of these accidents are caused by hot water in the bathtub, with a further third happening when the hot tap is running. In most homes, the hot water is set on about 70ºC, a temperature which poses an extreme threat to youngsters. At 70ºC it takes less than half-a-second to cause a full skin thickness scald in tender skin. At 60ºC it takes 1 second. At 55ºC it takes 30 seconds. And at 50ºC it takes five minutes before the child is scalded.The ideal maximum, safe temperature for hot tap water is 50ºC. The maximum bathing temperature for young children is 38ºC. The first thing to do in an emergency • Get the person out of the water and flood the affected skin with cool water. • Give first aid for burns and scalds (see below). Burns may also be caused by contact with flame, hot objects. or chemicals, by electrocution, radiated heat, frozen surfaces, friction or radiation. Barbecues, gas stoves and open fires are prime hazards and they should never be left unattended. If someone is burned on the face they could also have trouble breathing, although this may not happen immediately. A person who has inhaled smoke or fumes should receive medical attention as soon as possibe. For more information visit www.stjohn.org.au
PREPARING FOR EMERGENCIES Resuscitation can save a life, so it’s a good idea to learn first aid. St John Ambulance, Red Cross and a number of private first aid training companies run courses which also include information on resuscitation. Workcover can provide a list of accredited companies. Make a list of emergency numbers to keep near the telephone. Below are some suggestions for numbers to include. You can find the others in your local phone book. Police / Fire / Ambulance • local police • Poisons Information Centre • Council • Children’s Hospital, family doctor • Health Nurse • neighbours • relatives.
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HEALTH & SAFETY HOW TO TALK ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS TO YOUR CHILDREN Regardless of how old your children are, there’s a helpful way to have the ‘COVID-19 conversation’. Here’s what you need to know. Sharing age-appropriate information with your kids about serious situations is important, and if you’re wondering how to do that in the coronavirus climate, you’re not alone. One thing’s for sure: it’s likely they know a little – or a lot – about it already, even if they’re small. “Young children won’t have much concept of ‘coronavirus’ specifically, but they’ll know something’s happening simply because so many routines are changing,” says child and adolescent psychiatrist and former director of Beyond Blue, Professor Brett McDermott. And while what you choose to say to your kids about coronavirus will depend on their age, McDermott says the process of talking to them is the same. He suggests these four steps:
•
Start the conversation. “Kids have an underlying feeling that their parents will protect them, so if you wait for them to raise it, some children may think, ‘If my parents won’t talk about this, it must be really bad’.”
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Pick your moment. “Children get anxious when they’re taken aside for a chat, so don’t turn this into a dedicated event. Instead, choose a time when you’re together anyway, for example around the dinner table, where conversation tends to be free flowing.” You could start by asking what they already know about what’s currently happening. “Just take care to pick a moment when you’re not feeling anxious about this yourself, because anxiety is contagious.”
•
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Strike the right tone. “The way you deliver your message is just as important as what you say. Be warm, thoughtful and acknowledge that it’s an emotional time, but, without being too brief, deliver what you want to say in a matter-of-fact way.”
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
•
Encourage questions. Once you’ve said what you want to, ask if there’s anything else they’d like to know. “When kids ask questions, it demonstrates their understanding of the messages you’ve been trying to get across, and is also an opportunity to address any specific worries they have.” Plus, as well as monitoring children’s exposure to media reports about coronavirus, try to be with them when they do watch, read or listen to age-appropriate coverage. “That way, they can ask questions about what they hear and you can make sure they understand the content.” Now that you’re across how to talk to your children, here are a few tips about what to say, depending on their age. YOUNG CHILDREN Professor McDermott says a little information goes a long way. “And they don’t need technical words like ‘coronavirus’ or even ‘virus’,” he says. “Normalise it by using an example they already understand, something like, ‘You know how in winter, people get coughs, colds and a runny nose more often? Well, this is a bit like that. And while that’s all it is for most people, it might be a little bit more serious for older people, so we need to help protect them by using the new Australian superpower – washing our hands!’” TWEENS Call it what it is – a virus that causes flu-like symptoms. “Then, be clear that while it’s like the flu, the difference is we don’t have a vaccine or a flu shot yet. And explain that’s why keeping our distance from others and washing our hands is important because that’s how we stop the virus spreading. It’s also important to reassure kids of this age that while this is the situation now, we know it’ll get better because very smart people all over the world, including right here in Australia, are working 24 hours on a vaccine. And once that’s made, it will protect us.”
HEALTH AND SAFETY
TEENAGERS They’ve probably been exposed to what’s happening in places like Italy and Spain through news and social media, but might not have the ability to process that information. “So as parents, you need to be savvy. Acknowledge that this situation is complex but stress that every country is different and that we have some real advantages here in Australia, including that we’ve been able to learn from what’s happening in other countries and we have one of the best healthcare systems in the world.” Stick with that same message every time you talk to your teenagers rather than feeling you need to update them every time there’s a new development. “Being repetitive and consistent in how you talk to teenagers about this can help to protect them from feeling stressed or uncertain, particularly if the situation keeps evolving.”
TALKING ABOUT SCARY STUFF IN THE NEWS Children need support to understand COVID-19 and how it is being covered in the news For many people, the coverage of COVID-19, like the pandemic itself, is unprecedented. While this helps us stay informed about what’s going on, it can be distressing – especially for children. Fortunately, there are ways to support children to understand what’s happening. FIVE TIPS FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS 1. Be aware of what kids are watching On average, adults in Australia spend nearly 100 hours watching TV or browsing online, and it’s safe to assume most people are more tuned in to the news than normal at the moment. Think about how often children are in the room or watching over your shoulder and be proactive about switching off when they’re around. 2. Help them understand Encourage your child to ask questions about what they’re seeing and explain that sometimes scary things happen in the world and it can be hard to understand why – and it’s really normal to feel scared and worried. 3. Provide plenty of reassurance While your day-to-day schedule will no doubt be
disrupted, it’s important to develop regular routine to help children feel comfortable and secure. This could be something as simple as having set meal times or reading each night before bed. 4. Focus on the helpers Help your child see the positives – that there are lots of people working at hospitals, supermarkets and petrol stations to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. You can also point out any acts of kindness, such as discounted meals and free coffee for healthcare workers, as examples of decency in people. 5. Take care of yourself Everyone is feeling the effect of the coronavirus, even if you haven’t contracted the illness or know someone who has. It’s important to take care of yourself so you can continue to support your family. • Limit how much news you watch if you’re becoming pre-occupied or feeling overwhelmed. • Talk to others about how COVID-19 has affected you. • Take care of yourself by exercising, getting enough sleep and communicating with friends and family. • Seek professional support if you need it.
Watch a video on Covid vaccination
Watch a video on how the virus spreads
Watch a video on living the new normal
CHANGES IN BEHAVIOUR - WHAT TO LOOK FOR When children are confronted with something stressful, like the constant discussion and coverage of COVID-19, they’re not always able to express their feelings in the same way adults can. Instead, they show how they’re feeling through their behaviour. Common reactions include: • becoming clingier • having more tantrums or outbursts • acting younger than their age • not sleeping as well • being more irritable • talking more about death and dying If your child is acting differently and you’re worried about their reaction to distressing news, seek support from a health professional or contact The Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service.
For more information, visit coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/i-am-supportingothers/children-and-young-people/
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Hand sanitiser and children
Safety tips > Store hand sanitiser products safely and out of reach of children > Supervise any use by young children > If you suspect a child has ingested hand sanitiser, regardless of the quantity, call the 24 hour Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. Have the container of the ingested product with you.
More information www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19 © NSW Health June 2020. SHPN (HP NSW) 200304.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
ADVICE FOR PARENTS DAY CARE AND PRESCHOOL AGED CHILDREN (0-4 YEARS) • If your child is sick, keep them at home. • If your child has symptoms like a runny nose, fever, cough or sore throat, call your GP. • In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000) or go to your closest emergency department. • See the raisingchildren.net.au COVID-19 family guide. PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN (5-11 YEARS) • If your child is sick, keep them at home. • For primary school aged children with symptoms of COVID-19, call your GP and ask about getting your child tested. • If you visit a public testing clinic, check that your local clinic tests children 11 years and under. • See the raisingchildren.net.au COVID-19 family guide.
HYGIENE TIPS FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS Encourage good hygiene including handwashing with soap and water, coughing/sneezing into a flexed elbow and avoid sharing food and drinks. HAND SANITISER SAFETY AND CHILDREN Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is dangerous if ingested, particularly for children.
HAND SANITISER SAFETY TIPS
SECONDARY SCHOOL CHILDREN (12-17 YEARS) • If your teenager is sick, keep them at home and get them tested for COVID-19. • If you visit a public testing clinic, check that your local clinic tests children 17 years and under.
SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS
SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 INCLUDE:
• be aware of imported products which may not be clearly labelled and may contain more toxic alcohols such as methanol that make the product more dangerous.
• • • • • •
fever (37.5°C or higher) cough sore/scratchy throat shortness of breath loss of smell or loss of taste.
Other reported symptoms include: • • • • • • • •
fatigue runny nose muscle pain joint pain headache diarrhoea nausea/vomiting loss of appetite.
In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia with severe acute respiratory distress.
• store hand sanitiser products safely and out of reach of children. • any use by young children should be under the supervision of an adult.
• washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is a safe and effective option. • if you suspect your child has ingested hand sanitiser, regardless of the quantity, call the 24 hour Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for first aid and monitoring advice. Have the container of the ingested product with you.
For more information visit: www.headtohealth.gov. au/covid-19-support/covid-19
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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HEALTH AND SAFETY
Download more information about living with allergies
FOOD ALLERGY OR INTOLERANCE? Learn more about Food Allergies
Many people think they are allergic to a food when in fact they are intolerant. Unlike food allergies, intolerances do not involve the body’s immune system. Slower in onset and not life threatening, food intolerance symptoms include headaches, bloating, wind, nausea, mouth ulcers or hives.
HOW TO GIVE AN EPIPEN IN AN EMERGENCY
Watch video on How to www.allergy.org.au give an Epipen
REMEMBER ALWAYS follow instructions on How the ASCIA Action to give Plan for Anaphylaxis for the individual concerned or ®the ASCIA EpiPen adrenaline First Aid Plan for Anaphylaxis which are in brief: (epinephrine)
Watch a video on Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction
Symptoms that occur several hours after a food is eaten are more often as a result of an intolerance or enzyme deficiency rather than a food allergy. A food allergy is not: • The inability to digest a food • An aversion to a food (disliking a food) • Food poisoning • A reaction to a food additive What is an allergy? Allergy is an immune response to a normally harmless substance. People can be allergic to many F I Rsuch S T asApollens, I D P moulds, L A N dust F O Rmites, animal things dander or saliva, insect stings or bites, medication, food and latex. Allergic disease also includes conditions such as eczema, hay fever, allergic For use with EpiPen®asthma. adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjectors conjunctivitis and allergic
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SIGNS OF MILD TO MODERATE ALLERGIC REACTION
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• Difficult/noisy • Difficulty talking•and/or allow them to sit If you DO NOT have an adrenaline breathing autoinjector: Difficult noisy breathing ALWAYSand/or give adrenaline autoinjector FIRST, if someone has • Swelling of tongue hoarse voiceautoinjector 2 Give adrenaline • SEVERE Swelling ofSUDDEN the tongue AND BREATHING DIFFICULTY (including wheeze, • Swelling/tightness in throat • Persistent or collapse 3 Phone ambulancedizziness - 000 (AU) or 111 (NZ)
persistent cough or hoarse ® or • Lay person flat - do NOT alloworthem to stand walk • Swelling/tightness in the voice), throateven if there are no skin EpiPen prescribed for and floppy (young • Wheeze persistent cough • Pale children) 4 isPhone family/emergency contact symptoms. THEN SEEK MEDICAL HELP. children over 20kg and adults. • If unconscious, place in recovery position 5® Further adrenaline doses • Wheeze or persistent cough may be given if no response after EpiPen Jr is prescribed for Hold leg still and PLACE ORANGE PUSH DOWN HARD until FOR a click isANAPHYLAXIS ACTION ••If adrenaline is accidentally (e.g. into a thumb)voice phone your local poisons information centre. 5 minutes • Ifouter breathing is difficult to sit. children 7.5-20kg. Difficult talkinginjected and/or hoarse END against mid-thigh heard or feltallow and holdthem in place for • Continue toat follow this plan for the of person with the allergic reaction. (with or without clothing) 3 seconds 6(000) Transfer personto to stand hospital for least 4 hours observation • CALL AN AMBULANCE: DIAL TRIPLE ZERO • Persistent dizziness or collapse 1 Lay person flat do NOT allow them or walk © ASCIA 2020 This document has been developed for use as a poster, or to be stored with general use adrenaline autoinjectors. REMOVE EpiPen® - If unconscious, place If in doubt give adrenaline • Pale and floppy (in young children) autoinjector
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in recovery position Commence CPR at any time if person is unresponsive and not breathing normally - If breathing is difficult See www.allergyfacts.org.au and www.allergy.org.au allow them to sit ALWAYS give adrenaline autoinjector FIRST, if someone has 2 Give adrenaline autoinjector SEVERE AND SUDDEN BREATHING DIFFICULTY (including wheeze, 3 Phone ambulance - 000 (AU) or 111 (NZ) persistent cough or hoarse voice), even if there are no skin ® is prescribed for EpiPen4 Phone family/emergency contact www.childsafetyhub.com.au 30 symptoms. THEN SEEK MEDICAL HELP. children over 20kg and adults. 5 Further adrenaline doses may be given if no response after EpiPen®Jr is prescribed for PUSH DOWN HARD until a click is 5 minutes • If adrenaline is accidentally injected (e.g. into a thumb) phone your local poisons information centre. children 7.5-20kg. heard or felt and hold in place for
HEALTH AND SAFETY
DENTAL HEALTH Tooth decay The main cause of tooth decay is an acid attack on the surfaces of the teeth. This acid is produced by bacteria which cling to the surface of the teeth in a film called dental plaque. Sweet, sticky, sugary foods encourage the plaque to make acid which causes tooth decay and bleeding gums. Cleaning teeth Children need to learn how to clean their teeth. Start to clean your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use a small, soft toothbrush and water. When the child is 18 months of age, introduce a small amount of junior fluoride toothpaste onto the brush. Just put a smear of toothpaste on the brush. It is best that your child cleans their teeth the twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Family strength toothpaste can be introduced after 6 years of age. From around 3 years of age until about 8 years of age, children can do some of the tooth brushing themselves, adults will need to help with brushing at least once a day. If the bacteria have been on the teeth for a long time, the gums may bleed (gingivitis) when brushed. This tells you that the gums are unhealthy. To get them healthy again the gums need to be cleaned along with your teeth, even if they bleed when brushed, the bleeding will stop after a while. Tips to prevent dental disease (dental decay and gingivitis) Here are some tips to prevent dental decay and gingivitis for children: • Put only breast milk, formula or water in your baby’s bottle. • Always hold your baby when feeding and remove the bottle when they have had enough to drink. • Putting your baby to bed with a bottle can cause tooth decay • Honey, glycerine, condensed milk or other sticky foods or liquids on your baby’s dummy can cause tooth decay • Drink fluoridated tap water throughout the day. If you are not sure if your local water is fluoridated, check with your local council • Avoid eating sugary sticky foods, fizzy drinks, sweet drinks and juices especially between meals. • Give your child foods which make them chew • Brush twice a day - after breakfast and before bed (use a small toothbrush and a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste) • If there’s no toothbrush, rinse with water • Use dental floss daily from about 3-4 years of age • Visit your dentist regularly DENTAL EMERGENCIES Toothache If your child has a toothache or a hole in a tooth, take your child to the dentist immediately. Tooth decay can
easily lead to an infection which is very painful for your child. Bleeding If your child’s gums bleed during tooth-brushing take your child to the dentist as soon as possible. This bleeding can be caused by a build-up of plaque at the gum line, or it may be a symptom of a medical condition. Your dentist can check this and advise you. Injury If your child falls and hurts a tooth take them to the dentist quickly. If the teeth are loose, especially the permanent (adult) teeth, they need to be replaced in the socket and splinted as soon as possible, preferably Brushing Childrens Teeth: within the hour. The sooner the tooth is back in place In Pictures the better its chance of survival in the long term. Do not attempt to replace a baby tooth. If a permanent tooth is knocked out: 1. If the permanent tooth is knocked out: • Hold the tooth by the crown, and if it’s clean, replant tooth immediately and hold it in place by biting gently on a handkerchief or clean cloth. If the tooth is dirty, rinse in milk or saline first, then replant the tooth (use water as a last resort, 10 seconds only) • Do not scrub or touch the root of tooth • Make sure that the tooth is not back to front-facial surface towards the front. You can check this against the next tooth or someone else’s front tooth. • If you can’t replant the tooth, store it in a cup of milk, saline or saliva. Do not store in water. 2. Seek urgent dental treatment, go straight to a dental clinic or emergency department of a hospital. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth. Teeth development Most children have 20 baby teeth. Typically, baby teeth can start to appear between 6 - 10 months of age and continue coming through until a child is 3 years of age. The bottom front teeth are usually the first to appear. When teething begins, you may notice that your child drools more and wants to chew on things. For some babies, teething is painless: others may experience brief periods of irritability. Giving your baby something to chew on like a clean chilled teething ring or clean cold wash cloth, or rubbing their gums with a clean finger can help relieve symptoms. Adult teeth start developing inside babies’ jawbones after birth. After a baby tooth falls out, an adult (permanent) tooth takes its place. Children usually start losing their baby teeth from around six years of age. The appearance of adult teeth usually occurs between 6-12 years of age, with the exception of wisdom teeth that might start coming through around 17 years of age. Adult teeth don’t get replaced, so you have to look after them. It’s a good idea to have regular dental visits to check on your child’s tooth development. www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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HEALTHY KIDS With good food habits and daily physical activity you will be well on your way to a healthy life. Easy to say, but sometimes not so easy to do! Our busy lifestyles can be hard on our family’s health. Rushing to and from school and work can make it hard to find time to be physically active. We can also slip into the habit of choosing unhealthy snacks and take-away foods or spending our free time watching TV or in front of the computer. What can I do? There are five simple ways for your family to lead a healthy lifestyle and get back on track: 1. Get active each day • Regular physical activity is important for the healthy growth, development and well-being of children and young people. • They should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, including vigorous activities that make them ‘huff and puff’. • Include activities that strengthen muscles and bones on at least 3 days of the week. • Parents should be good role models and have a positive attitude to being active. 2. Choose water as a drink • Water is the best way to quench your thirst – and it doesn’t come with the added sugar found in fruit juices, soft drinks and other sweetened drinks. • Reduced fat milk for children over two is a nutritious drink and a great source of calcium. • Give kids whole fruit to eat, rather than offering fruit juices that have a lot of sugar.
3. Eat more fruit and vegetables • Eating fruit and vegetables every day helps children grow and develop, boosts their vitality and can reduce the risk of many chronic diseases. • Aim to eat two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables every day. • Have fresh fruit available as a convenient snack and try to include fruit and vegies in every meal. 4. Switch off the screen and get active • Sedentary or ‘still’ time spent watching TV, surfing online or playing computer games is linked to kids becoming overweight or obese. • Children and young people should spend no more than two hours a day on ‘small screen’ entertainment. Break up long periods of use as often as possible. • Plan a range of active indoor and outdoor games or activities for your children, as alternatives to watching TV or playing on the computer. 5. Eat fewer snacks and select healthier alternatives • Healthy snacks help children and young people meet their daily nutritional needs. • Snacks based on fruit and vegetables, reduced fat dairy products and whole grains are the healthiest choices. • Avoid snacks that are high in sugar or saturated fats – such as chips, cakes and chocolate – which can cause children to put on excess weight.
At school students learn about the types of foods and drinks needed to stay healthy, to help brains work and to help them feel more alert – just what is needed to get through the school day. So it makes sense that the school canteen is full of healthy food and drink options. Good nutrition is vital to all children and young people, as it helps them to grow and learn. The Healthy School Canteen Strategy is about improving access to healthy food and drink choices and it’s about providing students with the skills and opportunity to learn about healthy food and drink choices and making the healthy choice the right choice. The revised Healthy School Canteen Strategy has the new Food and Drink criteria which categorises food and drink as either Everyday or Occasional. This replaces the traffic light system of Green, Amber and Red foods which made the Fresh Tastes @ School strategy. The Food and Drink criteria follow the Australian Dietary Guidelines that recommend that we eat from the five food groups, vegetables, wholegrain, dairy, fish and meat everyday, and only occasionally eat small amounts of foods containing lots of fat, salt and sugar. Look for the Everyday food and drinks in your canteen – they are easy to spot as they will be at the front of the counter and there will be plenty of fabulous choices. Everyday foods include foods from each of the five food groups. Choose things like sandwiches and wraps filled with salads/cheese/eggs, toasties with apple and cinnamon, rice paper rolls, jacket potatoes, lasagna, burritos with beans and salsa, pizza muffins, fruit and popcorn, just to name a few. The Occasional foods are things like meat pies, sausage rolls, hot chips, crisps, sweet biscuits, processed meats such as salami, cakes, muesli , confectionery, ice cream, desserts and soft drinks. Load up on the everyday and have less occasional food and drinks, because you know it will make you feel better throughout the day. For more information visit healthyschoolcanteens.nsw.gov.au
THE NSW HEALTHY SCHOOL CANTEEN STRATEGY
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Play the game: Eat for Health
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It’s helpful to get to know the recommended serving sizes and serves per day so that your child eats and drinks the right amount of the nutritious foods they need for health – as shown in the tables above. We’ve given you the serve size in grams too, so you can weigh foods to get an idea of what a serve looks like.
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The ‘serve size’ is a set amount that doesn’t change. It is used along with the ‘serves per day’, to work out the total amount of food required from each of the Five Food Groups. ‘Portion size’ is the amount your child actually eats and this will depend on what their energy needs are. Some children’s portion sizes are smaller than the ‘serve size’ and some are larger. Children may eat smaller amounts more often if they choose.
Choose ‘everyday ‘everyday foods’ foods’ for for home home and and school The amount of food your child will need from the •• Choose school Five Food Groups depends on their age, gender, from the the Five Five Food Food Groups. Groups. TheFor Australian DietaryGuidelines Guidelinesprovide provide from The Australian Dietary height, weight and physical activity levels. example, a 3-year-old boy requires 1 serve ofup-to-date fruit a day, but advice up-to-date advice about theamount amount and HOW MANY SERVES A DAY? about the and 34 ••www.childsafetyhub.com.au an 11-year-old boy needs 2 serves of fruit a day. Save discretionary discretionary choices choices for for special special Save kinds offoods foodsthat that we need to eat for health kinds of we need to eat for health A 9-year-old girl needs 4 serves of grain (cereal) Children rarely eat exactly the same way each day and it is occasions. occasions. foods a day, and a 14-year-old girl needs serves a common to have a little more on some days than others. and7wellbeing. wellbeing. and Red kidney beans
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HEALTH AND SAFETY
Australian Guide to Healthy Eating Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods from these five food groups every day. Drink plenty of water.
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Muesli
Polenta
Quinoa
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Red kidney beans
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Fruit Lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds and legumes/beans Milk, yoghurt, cheese and/or alternatives, mostly reduced fat
Use small amounts
Only sometimes and in small amounts
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
35
HEALTH AND SAFETY
ASTHMA What is asthma? Asthma is a long-term lung condition of the airways. Children with asthma have sensitive lungs which become inflamed when exposed to triggers, this can cause the onset of a ‘flare up ’also known as an asthma attack. The muscles around the airway squeeze tight, swell and become narrow during a flare up, these issues make breathing difficult. An asthma flare up can have a rapid (within minutes) or slow onset (hours, days or weeks). For children aged 5 to 14 years, asthma is a leading cause of total disease burden, 14% accounts for boys and 12% for girls [1]. In 2017-2018 almost half (44%) of the hospitalisations for asthma in Australia were for children aged 0-14 years [1]. Asthma cannot be cured, however for most children it can be well controlled by following a daily management plan. What are the Triggers of asthma? A child’s asthma may be worse on some days than others due to asthma triggers. Every child has a different experience or different trigger. Some triggers that affect children include: • Colds and flu • Hay fever • Exercise • Bushfires and smoke Among children cold and flu are the most common trigger for an asthma-flare up which can be serious whether a child’s asthma is mild or well controlled. Colds and flu cannot be avoided, however, risk can be reduced by: • Washing hands regularly • Cough or sneeze into a tissue or elbow • Avoid crowded spaces where possible • Staying home if really unwell Exercise is also a common trigger among children, otherwise known as exercised-induced asthma. Exercise should not be avoided as this trigger can be easily managed and moderate exercise can be beneficial for a child’s asthma. Exercised induced asthma can be managed by: • Two puffs of reliever medication 15 minutes before exercise • Preventer medication • Regular doctor reviews • Keep exercise moderate
Asthma Flare-Up Flare-ups in children do happen and are most often caused by colds and flu, therefore it is almost impossible to avoid. An asthma flare-up is different from having asthma symptoms as they are more severe and require urgent medical attention. When a child’s symptoms aren’t improving or responding to reliever medications this is a sign that a flare-up is looming. Asthma First Aid As children are dependent on supervision and care it is vital that parents learn asthma first aid. If your child is experiencing a severe or lifethreatening asthma flare-up, call an ambulance and then start asthma first aid. If your child is experiencing a mild to moderate asthma flare-up, begin asthma first aid: 1. Sit child upright. • Be calm and do not leave them alone. 2. Give 4 separate puffs of blue/grey reliever puffer. • Shake, 1 puff, 4 breaths. • Repeat until 4 puffs have been taken. 3. Wait 4 minutes – if no improvement repeat step two. 4. If there is still no improvement dial 000 and continue giving 4 separate puffs every 4 minutes until emergency assistance arrives. If your child has asthma, speak to your child’s doctor about a written Asthma Action Plan, device technique checks and preventer medication. For more information on asthma call 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) or visit www.asthma.org.au
[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2019. Asthma. Cat. no. ACM 33. Canberra: AIHW Viewed 29 October 2019, https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-respiratory-conditions/asthma
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Learn more about asthma emergency and first aid
Learn more about asthma in young children
HEALTH AND SAFETY
DIABETES What is diabetes? Diabetes is characterised by high glucose levels (commonly referred to as sugar levels) in the blood stream, caused by a lack of insulin production, ineffective insulin, or a combination of both. There are two main types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2 – their cause and management can be quite different. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, making up 85-90% of all diabetes cases. It mainly affects adults, but can affect young people, even children. It is caused by genetic and lifestyle factors, such as lack of physical activity, poor food choices and excess weight. In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system destroys the insulin-making cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. The pancreas stops making insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is essential for life, so children with type 1 diabetes need to replace insulin in the body either with several injections a day or via an insulin pump. The majority of children with diabetes have type 1. The onset usually occurs under the age of 30 (and has been known in the past as Juvenile Onset Diabetes), however it can happen at any age. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not known. A combination of genetic factors, together with environmental factors, are thought to trigger the autoimmune response. These environmental triggers are largely unknown but likely to be viral and/or chemical. Type 1 diabetes is not contagious or preventable, nor is it caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. This is a common misconception which has, at times, resulted in blaming and shaming students for unhealthy food choices including ‘too much sugar’ or junk food. Nationally, there are over 14,000 school-aged children living with type 1 diabetes, with 4500 of
Signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes • Being excessively thirsty • Blurred vision • Passing more urine • Unexplained weight loss • Feeling tired and lethargic • Mood swings • Always feeling hungry • Headaches • Having cuts that heal slowly • Feeling dizzy • Itching, skin infections • Leg cramps These symptoms may occur suddenly and, if not treated properly, can pose immediate life-threatening health risks. If they occur, see a doctor straightaway. With a simple test, a doctor can find out if your child has type 1 diabetes.
these in NSW.. Recently, Diabetes NSW & ACT rolled out a new diabetes-in-schools education and training program to make it easier for teachers and staff to support children with type 1 diabetes, and give parents confidence that their children will be safe and supported at school. The program covers the safe management of diabetes and ‘normalises’ diabetes in schools so students are not stigmatised. In the school setting, a child must have access to their blood glucose monitoring kit, and hypo kit, at all times. Monitoring blood glucose is not a ‘sick bay’ activity, and must be supported in the classroom. Tending to activities of daily diabetes care in the classroom environment is less disruptive to a child’s learning, and can help other students understand and support a peer living with diabetes.
Learn more about when your child has diabetes
Watch a video about DiaBuddies Day
Diabetes NSW & ACT runs camps and Diabuddies Days for children with type 1 diabetes throughout the year. These are fantastic opportunities for children to meet others with type 1 diabetes and gain confidence in their own diabetes management. It can be an isolating experience for children living with type 1 diabetes, so these events enable children and their families to meet others facing the same challenges and triumphs. They are a chance to celebrate the children’s achievements, while facilitating education, networking and friendships. To find out about upcoming camps or DiaBuddies Days call 1300 342 238 or email events@diabetesnsw.com.au
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
37
FIRE SAFETY
FACT – Almost half of all house fires start in the kitchen.
Never leave cooking unattended. Stay in the kitchen while cooking and turn off the stove before you leave.
Don’t put anything metallic in the microwave and always double-check the timer.
Avoid cooking under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
There are many dangerous substances in the kitchen. Flammable materials such as aerosols, cleaning agents and cooking oils should be stored away from heat and locked away from children.
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FIRE SAFETY
Keep matches out of reach of children.
IF YOUR PAN CATCHES FIRE HERE’S WHAT TO DO Turn off the stove (if safe to do so) and use the lid to cover the flame.
Keep your oven, rangehood and grill clean and in good working order. A build-up of grease and fat can ignite in a fire.
Turn pot handles inwards.
Keep loose clothing, fabrics, tea towels, curtains and flammable items away from the stove.
!
×
Use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket in the first few seconds of ignition if you are confident.
Learn more about Cooking & Fire Safety
Watch a video about Cooking & Fire Safety
Download the Fire + Rescue App
Never use water to put out a fat or oil fire.
Leave the kitchen, close the door and call Triple Zero ‘000’.
Children need constant supervision to protect them from the dangers of fires, burns and scalds.
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39
FIRE SAFETY
SMOKE ALARMS
Help us, help you stay safe by following these simple smoke alarm guidelines:
SMOKE ALARMS CHOOSING YOUR SMOKE ALARM
CHOOSING YOUR SMOKE ALARM
Help us, help you stay safe by following these simple smoke alarm guidelines:
1. It’s the law to have at l east one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home. This includes owner occupied homes, rental properties, relocatable homes, caravans an d camper-vans or any other residential building where people sleep. 2. Fire & Rescue NSW recommends the installation of photoelectric smoke alarms, ideally hard-wired and interconnected.
1. It’s the law to have at least one or more working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home. • Standard battery-operated This includes owneralarms. occupied homes, rental • Mains-powered smoke alarms. properties, relocatable homes, caravans and • Smoke alarms with ten year lithium batteries. camper-vans or any other residential building • Strobe light and vibrating pad alarms. These are wherefor people available people sleep. who are deaf or hard of hearing.
3. There are different types of smoke alarms available:
more information contact the Deaf Society 2. For Smoke alarms must have the Australian Standard of NSW on 02 8833 3600. symbol on the packaging. Fire and Rescue NSW 4. The Australian Standard symbol on the packaging recommends shows if the alarm issmoke approvedalarms and safe. be installed in every bedroom and ideally hard wired and interconnected. 5. Your local Fire & Rescue NSW station will be happy
you advice on which type is best or f you. 3.to give There are different types of suited smoke alarms available:
INSTALLING YOUR SMOKE ALARM
1. 2. 3.
• Standard battery-operated alarms. Avoid fitting smoke alarmssmoke in or near your kitchen • Mains-powered alarms. or bathroom. • Smoke alarms with ten year lithium batteries. The ideal position is on the ceiling between • Strobe lightareas. and vibrating pad alarms. These are sleeping and living available peoplerequirement, who are deaf In addition to thefor minimum Fire or hard of hearing. & Rescue NSW recommends installing smoke For more information contact the Deaf Society alarms in all bedrooms where people sleep. of NSW on 02 8833 3600.
4. Hard-wired smoke alarms need to be installed 4.by an Your local Fire & Rescue NSW station will be happy electrician.
to give you advice on which type is best suited for you. 5. Always install smoke alarms in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 6. If it is difficult for you to fit one yourself, contact your local Fire & Rescue NSW station for help. They’ll be happy to install your smoke alarm battery for you.
INSTALLING YOUR SMOKE ALARM MAINTAINING
×
YOUR SMOKE ALARM
1. Avoid fitting smoke alarms in or near your kitchen or bathroom. 2. The ideal position is on the ceiling between sleeping and living areas. 1. Test your smoke alarm batteries every month by pressing and holding the test button for
3.fiveInseconds. addition to the minimum Fire Replace batteries every 12requirement, months. & Rescue NSW recommends installing smoke 2. Vacuum dust off alarms every six months. alarms in all bedrooms where people sleep. 3. Replace smoke alarms with a new photoelectric
every ten years or earlier, if specifi ed to be installed 4.alarm Hard-wired smoke alarms need by the manufacturer. by an electrician.
For more information on smoke alarms, 5. fiAlways install alarms in accordance visit: re.nsw.gov.au andsmoke planning.nsw.gov.au
manufacturer’s instructions.
40
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
with
6. If it is difficult for you to fit one yourself, contact your local Fire & Rescue NSW station for help. They’ll be happy to install your smoke alarm battery for you.
FIRE SAFETY
Single Floor Plan
Smoke Alarms for Minimum Protection Smoke Alarms for Additional Protection
Multi-Level Floor Plan
Smoke Alarms for Minimum Protection Smoke Alarms for Additional Protection
MAINTAINING YOUR SMOKE ALARM Learn more about Smoke Alarms
1. Test your smoke alarm batteries every month by pressing and holding the test button for five Watch seconds. batteries every 12 months. a videoReplace on ReAlarm: Shopping
2. Vacuum dust off alarms every six months. to replace your smoke alarm
3. Replace smoke alarms with a new alarm every ten years or earlier, if specified by the manufacturer. For more information on smoke alarms, visit: fire.nsw.gov.au and planning.nsw.gov.au www.childsafetyhub.com.au
41
FIRE SAFETY
PLAN A SAFE ESCAPE BE PREPARED BY MAKING A PLAN OF ESCAP E MEET PLAC ING E
FACT - Having a home escape plan in conjunction with a working smoke alarm will greatly increase your chances of getting out safely. Every second counts
Draw a floor plan of your home, including two ways of escape from each room. Plan an escape route and ensure everyone knows how to get out.
Blocked exits are a hazard. Keep exits clear.
Keep door and window keys in or next to locks so they can be opened easily.
Decide on a meeting place outside e.g. .the letterbox. Provide alternatives and someone to assist for anyone with a disability.
EXAMPLE ESCAPE PLAN Decide on a meeting place outside e.g. the letterbox.
MEETING PLACE Plan two ways out of a room. Primary Secondary
Draw your escape plan here and share it with your family.
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FIRE SAFETY
BARBECUE SAFETY
The backyard barbie can be a common cause of fires during summer. Here are some pointers:
LP CY SA
There should be an adult in charge of a lit barbecue at all times.
Keep barbecues clean and ensure all gas hoses and connections are correctly fitted.
After using your barbecue, remove all excess fat so it doesn’t become a fire hazard.
LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
There should be an adult in charge of a lit barbecue at all times.
with soapy water.
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Ensure connections on hoses are tight with nouse leakage. Never a hose that has perished or is cracked.
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Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for Ensure connections maintenance. on hoses are tight with no leakage.
Check the expiry date before using a gas cylinder. Liquid Petroleum GasNever (LPG)check can for leaks with be extremely dangerous if stored a naked flame.
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
Never use portable LPG cylinders indoors 1 Liquid Petroleum Gasor (LPG) canned in confi Check the expiry spaces. be extremely dangerous if stored date before using or used incorrectly. a gas cylinder.
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Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for Ensure connections maintenance. on hoses are tight with no leakage.
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Never use portable LPG cylinders indoors Replace cylinders or in confi Check thened expiry if they appear date before using damagedspaces. or rusty. a gas cylinder.
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PREVENTING
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Always read and follow the 12-13 manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
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Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance. Never use portable LPG cylinders indoors or in confined Check spaces.the expiry date before using a gas cylinder.
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PREVENTING
LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
PREVENTING
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There should be an adult in charge of a lit barbecue at all times. Never use portable LPG cylinders indoors or in confined spaces.
Never use portable LPG cylinders indoors or in confined spaces.
LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
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There should be an adult in charge of a lit barbecue at all Replace times. cylinders Never use if they appear damagedportable or rusty. LPG cylinders indoors or in confined spaces.
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LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
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PREVENTING
The backyard barbie can be a common cause of fires during summer. Here are some pointers:
ep barbecues clean d ensure all gas ses and connections e correctly fitted.
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LPG & GAS CYLINDER SAFETY
There should be an adult in charge of a lit barbecue at all times.
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Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for Ensure connections maintenance. on hoses are tight with no leakage.
Check the expiry date before using a gas cylinder. Never check for leaks with a naked flame.
Ensure connections on hoses are tight with nouse leakage. Never a hose that has perished or is cracked.
Never check for leaks with a naked flame.
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
12 43 7/04/2015 11:54 am
BUSH FIRE SAFETY PACKAGE The Lil Larrikkins pack has been developed to help explain to students the dangers of bush fires and give them age appropriate actions to help them and their families better prepare and become more resilient for bush fire events.
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a f e t ya f e t y Fi re Sa fe B u s h f i r e S Ho me Australian Bushfire Areas Name:
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Research to find out where major bushfires have occurred in Australia over the last 10 to 20 years. Mark the locations on the map6 below. Colour code the map using the following key: Red = High number of bushfire events
5
3
1
6
Orange = Moderate number 2 of bushfire events
5
Yellow = Low number of bushfire events 7
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Green = No bushfire events
1
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Use an ‘X’ to identify local risk areas. 4
1. Spr inkl er
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s and ven Spark-p ts roof your home with stainless steel flyw bronze or and doo rs, or insta ire screens on wind shut ters ll fire resi . Cov stant met ows mesh. Enc er all wall cavi al ties in fine Cover vent lose areas under decks and wire s in the mesh. roof spac e with fine floors. wire
3. Roofing
Well-secure d metal tiled roof needs to roof ing is preferab resistan t sarking be well fitted with le. A (fibregla foil). ss-based firealuminium
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7. Walls
Well-secure d metal Choose tiled roof non -flam needs to roof ing is preferab mable wall as brick, resistan mud bric t sarking be well fitted with le. A k and fibre materials such weather (fibregla foil). boards, ss-based firerough timb cement. Viny cladding aluminium l er and othe can war p external roof and or catch fire. Gap r wall clad sealed. s in ding nee d to be
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The NSW RFS, together other national bush fire agencies, created the Lil Larikkins Bush Fire Safety Program to assist primary school teachers to educate students about bush fire. The package includes tools such as comprehensive notes and lesson plans to help empower primary school students to take stock of their surroundings and community and learn more about the unique Australian environment in which we live. To access the resources or for more information visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/lillarikkins
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE VOLUNTEERS have been protecting local communities from bush and grass fires for more than 100 years. Our volunteers make a difference in their communities not just by fighting fires, but also by helping families prepare themselves and their homes for a bush fire.
The NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE can support teachers and students by presenting skills-based sessions to students, assisting in school emergency planning and working with the wider school community to be prepared for a fire event. If you would like a member of the NSW RFS to visit your school please contact your local Fire Control Centre or visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/schoolsenquiry
BUSH FIRE AND YOUR FAMILY A bush fire survival plan can help you make important decisions about what to do during a fire - like when to leave, what to take and what to do with animals.
GETTING READY for a bush fire is easier than you think and there are simple things you can do to protect yourself and your family this bush fire season.
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au NSW Rural Fire Service
1. DISCUSS
#MyFirePlan
It’s a fact. If you and your home are well prepared, you stand a better chance of surviving a bush fire. Join with everyone else in ensuring that your home and family are protected by following the Four Simple Steps to getting ready for a bush fire.
with your family what you will do if a fire happens near you.
2. PREPARE
3. KNOW
4. KEEP
your home and get it ready for bush fire season.
the bush fire alert levels.
information like websites and emergency details handy.
Get the easy guide to making your
bush fire survival plan at www.myfireplan.com.au DISCUSS
PREPARE
KNOW
KEEP
GET READY FOR A BUSH FIRE FOUR SIMPLE STEPS TO MAKING YOUR BUSH FIRE SURVIVAL PLAN Getting ready for a bush fire is easier than you think. By taking 20 minutes with your family to discuss what you’ll do during a fire, you could save their lives, as well as your home.
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
It is important to talk to your child about your family’s plans in the event of a bush fire. The Bush Fire Cooperative Research Council has released a document to assist parents in involving their children in bush fire survival planning. For more information visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/involveyourkids
BUSHFIRE SAFETY
4 SIMPLE STEPS Preparing for a bush fire is easier than you think. It’s your responsibility to prepare yourself, LEAVING EARLY OR PREPARING TOfour STAY? your home and your family. There are simple steps to get ready for a bush fire: One of the most important things to do before a bush fire is to decide what you’ll do if one should start. This guide can help you make that decision, and assist you with the steps in preparing yourself, your home and your family. Once you’ve had the discussion and made a decision, get your family to sign this document.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? DECIDE TO STAY. ONLY IF YOU’RE WELL PREPARED.
LEAVE EARLY, YOUR SAFEST CHOICE.
you start, ask your household: • When will we leave? • Do we haveBefore all the equipment we need? When will we leave? • Is your home well prepared to make it as safe as possible during a fire? • Where will we go? • When there is a fire, what is our sign to start Check the Step 2 property protection checklists. What will be your sign to leave? It could be smoke in your area, as soon as you find out there’s a fire near you. • Are we putting anyone in our family at risk by staying? • How will orwe get there? defending our home? For example children, the elderly, or people with asthma. • Will we cope in an emergency situation? In a fire, it will be hot, smoky • What will we take? • Do we know what to do BEFORE, DURING and physically draining. Even trained firefighters can find it challenging. If you’rea not sure or aren’t prepared, you should leave early. • Who will call to tell that YOUR we’re leaving AFTER fire? STEP 2:we PREPARE HOME AND and GET READY and that we have arrived safely? • Do all members of our household KNOW THE TOP 5 ACTIONS TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER • What is our backup plan? WHAT TO DO in all situations? There are some simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire. You need to prepare • What is our backup plan? Where willthe we last go? minute is too late. well beforehand as leaving it to Do we have all the equipment we need?
Where’s a meeting place that’s safe and away from a fire area? It might be a friend or relative’s place, or even a shopping centre.
Go through all the items on the Decide to Stay checklist and see what’s missing. Make a commitment to get all equipment by a specific date.
Here are five simple things you can do before and during the bush fire season.
How will we get there?
When there is a fire, what is our sign to start defending our home?
What road will you take? What’s your backup plan in case the road is blocked?
It could be as soon as you find out there’s a fire near you. Do not wait for an official warning.
2. MOW
1. TRIM
4. CLEAR
3. REMOVE
5. PREPARE
Trim overhanging Clear and remove Prepare a sturdy Mow grass Remove material trees and shrubs. allwhat the debris hose or hoses and remove that can burn Do we know to do BEFORE, DURING and AFTER a fire?that What will wecuttings. take? This can stop the and leaves from will reach all around the around your home Study the Decide to Stay action checklist. Make a list of what you’ll take in the event of a fire. Remember to include pets, fire spreading to the gutters your home. Make Have cleared (e.g. Door mats, identification and irreplaceable itemsalike photos or documents. your home. surrounding sure you’ve got area around wood piles, mulch, If there is a fire in your area youyour will find its alert level on the NSW RFS website, on the radio andyour in the ‘Fires Near Me’ app. home. a reliable source home. leaves, paint, Burning embers of water. outdoor furniture). You need to keep track of the alert level so you know what you should do. can set your Do all members of our household KNOW WHAT TO DO home on fire. in all situations?
STEP 3: KNOW THE BUSH FIRE ALERT LEVELS
Give specific roles to each person.
Who will we call to tell that we’re leaving and that we have arrived safely? Who will we call to let them know we’re leaving and that we’ve got there safely?
is our backup plan? Join others in your neighbourhood in completing these Top 5 ActionsWhat to protect your home.
WATCH AND ACT
ADVICE
A fire has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes.
Consider unexpected events such as if one of us is home alone, if we aren’t home, if the fire moves faster than expected or if the phone lines and electricity are down.
There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action to protect It’s not safe you and your family.
STEP 4: KEEP KEY INFORMATION What is our backup plan? What if things don’t go to plan? Identify a safer location nearby such as a neighbour’s home
EMERGENCY WARNING
An Emergency Warning is the highest level of Bush Fire Alert. You may be in danger
to stay with your property under some circumstances, and need to take action immediately.like: Any delay now puts your life at risk. • If the fire danger rating is Catastrophic.
• There is anRural ExtremeFire fire danger ratingstrongly and your home is not specially designed that well prepared, or a important place of last resort. Is there Neighbourhood Safer Place In aisbush fire, it’s that youa stay up to date on nearby? conditions in your area. The NSW Service advises or constructed for bush fires. saving these numbers, links and apps now. • Your property is not well maintained.
• You or the people in your home aren’t mentally and physically fit and ready. Under these circumstances, you should leave early.
Neighbourhood Safe Places are a place of last resort, such as a sports ground or local building that has been specially identified for use during a fire.
Remember that bush and grass fires can move quickly and catch you off guard. If you are caught in a fire, protect yourself from the heat.
Not all areas will have a Neighbourhood Safer Place so check www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/nsp for locations.
In an emergency call Triple Zero (000)
NSW Rural Fire Service Website: rfs.nsw.gov.au
We have discussed and agreed with the entire household we will:
For information on bush fire, call the Bush Fire Information Line [ ] Leave early 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
Danger Ratings: [ Fire ] Decide to stay rfs.nsw.gov.au/fdr
The safest option is to leave early before the fire reaches you.
‘Fires Near Me’ Free smartphone app. Signed:
Local radio, local ABC/emergency broadcaster frequency, TV, newspapers
facebook.com/nswrfs twitter.com/nswrfs
BUSHFIRE SAFETY
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
st make PREPARE. You mu starts.
important decisions
before the fire season re e Danger Rating, the mo ACT. The higher the Fir ns. dangerous the conditio ten without warning so SURVIVE. Firesatmayoyuthrwileal do to survive. you need to know wh
FOR INFORMATION ON FIRES • Check our Fires Near Me page for current incidents • Listen to local media • Check social media such as NSW RFS Facebook and NSW RFS Twitter • Bush Fire Information Line - 1800 679 737 TO REPORT A FIRE EMERGENCY • Call Triple Zero (000) • If you are deaf or have a speech or hearing impairment call 106
WHAT TO DO DURING A FIRE BEFORE THE FIRE • Put on your protective clothing • Turn on the radio to keep yourself informed • Bring pets inside and keep them in one room • Close all windows and doors • Block spaces beneath doors and windows with wet towels • Fill buckets, sinks and bath tubs with water ready to put out spot fires • Have your firefighting equipment like pumps and hoses connected to your water supply • Block downpipes and fill gutters with water • Remove items which can burn from around your home like outdoor furniture • Bring ladders inside to check roof space for embers • Patrol the outside of your home putting out any embers or spot fires • Just before the fire arrives, wet down timber decks and gardens close to the house • Move any firefighting equipment to a place where it will not get burnt
DURING THE FIRE • Go inside but stay alert • Shelter in a room on the RE opposite side of the house EMB LeaM from the approaching fire and v i n i s yo g eaER: one that has a clear exit out of rl u the house optri safesty on. • Patrol inside the house, including the roof space looking for sparks and embers • Protect yourself from the heat of the fire • If your life is at risk, call triple zero (000) ONCE THE FIRE HAS PASSED • Check your roof spaces • Go outside and put out any part of your house which is alight • Check under the house and any decks • Check on your pets and animals • Embers or sparks can start spot fires for many hours after • the fire has passed • If you can, contact your family and friends and check on your neighbours
FIRE DANGER RATING THE HIGHER THE FIRE DANGER RATING, THE MORE DANGEROUS THE CONDITIONS Know the fire danger in your area and what it means. The fire danger rating should be your first trigger for action and could save your life. When the rating is Catastrophic, leaving early is the only option for your survival. Know your triggers. Be prepared to activate your Bush Fire Survival Plan with little or no warning.
FIRE HAS A PLAN. YOUR FAMILY NEEDS ONE TOO.
TALK TO YOUR FAMILY AND DECIDE WHAT YOU’LL DO.
FOR MORE SIMPLE STEPS GO TO MYFIREPLAN.COM.AU
Making a difference for our community, clients and each other. Maddocks has been providing legal services to businesses, government and individuals for 135 years. Each year we deliver a wide range of activities that have a positive impact on the communities in which we operate. These activities range from long-running and complex pro bono matters to the funding of important community programs. maddocks.com.au
Child Safety HANDBOOK
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STORM, FLOOD & TSUNAMI SAFETY STORMSAFE Are you at risk? Storms can happen anywhere, at any time of the year. It is important to prepare your family and prepare your property now and stay prepared all year round. Storms are the most costly natural disaster to affect NSW. During storms it is important to protect your family and property from the major impacts such as strong winds, hail and rising water levels (flash flooding Damaging winds can bring down trees, branches, power lines, remove roofs and blow around outdoor items, for example outdoor furniture and trampolines • Hail can injure people and damage property Heavy rainfall can cause water to: • damage exposed homes and belongings • rise rapidly, flooding homes, property and roads • drain rapidly making floodwaters, drains, and other water courses a safety hazard Damaging surf can be unsafe and flood homes and properties in coastal areas You may also be indirectly affected by storms; access roads may be blocked or you have no power, utilities or telephone connection. Prepare for a storm NOW There are eight simple things that you can do now to prepare your home and help reduce the potential damage caused by severe storms. 1. Maintain your yard and balcony. Secure or store items that could blow around in strong winds 2. Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages 3. Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property 4. Fix any damage to your roof, including broken or missing tiles 5. Check your insurance policy is current and adequate 6. Make a Home Emergency Plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency 7. Prepare an emergency kit with essential items in case you lose power or need to leave home in an emergency 8. Listen to your local radio station and other media for weather warnings
Learn more about Storm Safety
Download the SES StormSafe app
YOUR EMERGENCY CHECKLIST Your emergency kit provides items you might need if you lose power or need to leave your home in a hurry. Your emergency kit contents: A portable radio with batteries A torch with spare batteries A first aid kit Candles and waterproof matches Important papers including emergency contact numbers Copies of any emergency plan A waterproof bag for valuables When leaving or evacuating your property, place into your emergency kit: Medications Supplies for your baby Supplies for any other people in your care Appropriate clothing and footwear Food and drinking water
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
49
STORM, FLOOD AND TSUNAMI SAFETY
YOU CAN DO NOW TO PREPARE FOR STORMS MAINTAIN YARD AND BALCONY
Secure or put away items that could blow around in strong winds
TRIM BRANCHES
Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property
CHECK INSURANCE
Check your insurance policy is current and adequate
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT
Prepare an emergency kit in case you lose power or need to leave your home (turn over for checklist)
CLEAN GUTTERS
Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages
FIX ROOF DAMAGE
Fix any damage to your roof including broken or missing tiles
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY PLAN
Make a plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency
LISTEN TO LOCAL RADIO
Listen to your local radio station and other media for weather warnings
When a STORM WARNING is broadcast Servere Weather Warnings and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meterology to alert communities to the threat of severe weather. When a warning is issued for your area (but before the storm arrives), there are a few things you can do to help protect your family and property; • Move indoors, bringing children and pets with you • Park your car under secure cover and away from trees, powerlines and drains. During a storm During a storm, there are simple things you can do to help protect your family: • Never enter or travel through floodwater • Stay indoors, clear of windows • Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and damaged buildings • If driving, put your hazard lights on and pull over to the side of the road keeping clear of drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines • If outdoors, seek secure shelter away from drains, causeways, streams, creeks, trees and power lines • Listen to your local radio station and other media for information, updates and advice • For emergency assistance in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500 After the storm • Keep listening to your local radio station for information, updates and advice • Check your house or property for damage • Stay clear of creeks, drains, causeways, gutters, streams, fallen trees, power lines and any damaged buildings • Check to see if your neighbours need help • Do not go sightseeing as this may hinder recovery efforts or put yourself and others at risk.
For emergency help in floods and storms call the SES on 132 500 or visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Principal Partner
For life threatening emergencies call 000.
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STORM, FLOOD AND TSUNAMI SAFETY
Learn more about Flood Safety
Learn how to be prepared for a flood
Download the SES FloodSafe app
FLOODSAFE
Are you at risk from floods? If you live close to a creek, river, major stormwater drain or in a low-lying area, you may be at risk from flooding even if you have not experienced it personally. Evacuation warning To prepare for possible evacuation: • Stack possessions, records, stock or equipment on benches and tables, placing electrical items on top • Secure objects that are likely to float and cause damage • Relocate waste containers, chemicals and poisons well above floor level • Activate your Home or Business FloodSafe Plan • Locate important papers, valuables and mementos. • Place them in your Emergency Kit • Keep listening to your local radio station for information, updates and advice • Keep in contact with your neighbours • Be prepared to evacuate if advised by emergency services • Act early as roads may become congested or close
TIPS
Evacuation orders When you leave: • Turn off the electricity and gas at the mains before you leave and turn off and secure any gas bottles • Take your pets with you • Never enter or travel through floodwater • Keep listening to your local radio station for information, updates and advice • Follow your Home or Business FloodSafe Plan • Follow all instructions given by emergency services During a flood How do I prepare when flooding is about to happen? • Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater • Listen to your local radio station for information, updates and advice • Locate and check you Emergency Kit • Move pets and agisted animals to high ground • Stack possessions, records, stock or equipment on benches and tables, placing electrical items on top • Secure objects that are likely to float and cause damage • Relocate waste containers, chemicals and poisons well above floor level • Activate your Home FloodSafe Plan • Keep in contact with your neighbours and make sure they are aware of the Flood Warning • Be prepared to evacuate if advised by emergency services • Act early as roads may become congested or close.
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STORM, FLOOD AND TSUNAMI SAFETY
TSUNAMISAFE What is a Tsunami? A tsunami is a series of waves generated by a number of causes including: • Vertical movement of the sea floor as the result of a large earthquake • Submarine or coastal volcanic eruptions • Meteor impacts • Coastal landslides and slumps, either land-based or submarine Know your warnings You should know the warning types, warning signs, and the official warning channels that may be used, to indicate a tsunami is approaching. Know where to go Find the safest route to travel in the event that you might need to evacuate and identify the point at which your evacuation route may be cut. In many locations, it is likely that you will need to evacuate by foot due to congestion on roads. Find out where any evacuation centres could be set up in your area. If you prefer, check with friends and relatives outside the affected area to organise a place to go. Know who to call • For emergency help in tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500 • Keep local emergency numbers handy (in your phone or wallet) • In a life-threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero) WHEN A TSUNAMI WATCH IS ISSUED The first stage of the process for warning you about a tsunami is a ‘tsunami watch’ phase. This means
that there is the potential for an identified undersea earthquake to cause a tsunami threat to Australia. If there is a threat, the Bureau will issue a National Tsunami Watch. If there is no threat, a National Tsunami No Threat Bulletin will be issued. If there is a possibility of a Land Threat Tsunami emergency services may commence evacuations immediately. People in affected areas: • Locate your Emergency Kit and add any medications, important papers, special items for babies, elderly, clothing, food and water • Locate your Emergency Plan Keep listening to your local radio station or other media for any updates and advice • Follow advice given to you by emergency services ACTIONS TO TAKE WHEN A TSUNAMI WARNING IS ISSUED It is important to act early on warnings as tsunami can reach the coastline quickly and follow the advice of emergency services.
Learn more about Tsunami Safety
Learn more about the SES Home Emergency Plan Checklist
Marine and Immediate Foreshore Warning • Get out of the water and move away from the immediate water’s edge of harbours, coastal estuaries, rock platforms, and beaches • Boats in harbours, estuaries and in shallow coastal water should return to shore. Secure your boat and move away from the waterfront • Vessels already at sea should stay offshore in deep water until further advised • DO NOT go to the coast to watch the tsunami • Check that your neighbours have received this advice. Keep listening to your local radio station and monitor other media for updates and advice.
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Do you always hold your child’s hand when you’re out and about near roads? On the footpath, crossing the road or in a car park or driveway, always hold your child’s hand until they’re at least 10 years old.
Is your child sitting safely in the right car seat for their age and size? In the car always check your child is buckled up safely in the right car seat for their age and size, and that the car seat is correctly fitted to the car.
Do you check your child’s helmet before they go riding? Make sure your child always wears a correctly fitted helmet and that they ride in a safe place.
Follow your child’s road safety education journey at www.safetytown.com.au
BLUE
NE
T US
D
C
IED CUS TISF T SA OEMR-OW O
S ER M
MO ST
“WHY WOULD YOU BUY YOUR TYRES ANYWHERE ELSE?”
BLUE
TO FIND YOUR NEAREST STORE
Call 13 21 91 or visit tyrepower.com.au
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STREET SMART ROAD SAFETY KEEPING YOUR CHILDREN SAFE Children are vulnerable road users. They are at risk in the traffic environment because of their size, their difficulty in judging speed and distance and the fact that they may behave unpredictably. Your child may be able to tell you the rules and how to keep safe near in and around vehicles, but in reality, they will not always be able to apply them. More than one million children in NSW travel to and from school each day by car, bike, public transport or as a pedestrian. 40km/h school zones are in place to help protect children on their way to and from school at the times and places where they are often in high numbers, and every school in NSW has at least one set of school zone flashing lights. The NSW Government also funds the NSW Road Safety Education Program. This program supports delivery of road safety education to children and young people from early childhood to the end of high school. But this alone is not enough and families and carers play a critical role in helping to keep children and young people safe. You can help by following some simple safety steps and by regularly reinforcing important road safety messages with your children. PEDESTRIAN SAFETY Each year, kids are killed and injured playing near or trying to cross the road. A responsible adult should always actively supervise young children in the road environment. Key road safety messages to share with your kids: Younger kids • Hold a grown-up’s hand when - you cross the road - you’re on the footpath - you’re in the car park Older kids • Hold an adult’s hand when you cross the road (up to 10) • Use a safe place to cross the road • Stop! Look! Listen! Think! every time you cross the road TIPS FOR FAMILIES: • Until children are atleast 8 years old, theyshould always hold an adult’s hand whenever they are out and about
SCHOOL ZONE
8-9 2 -4
30 AM
30
PM
SCHOOL DAYS
40
END SCHOOL ZONE
• Up until they are at least 10 years old, children should always be supervised very closely, and should hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road • When crossing the road with your child, practice and talk about the following procedure: - STOP well back from the kerb - LOOK continuously both ways - LISTEN for sounds of approaching traffic - THINK whether is it safe to cross, and keep checking both ways until safely across • Use a pedestrian crossing where possible. Take care whenever you cross. Vehicles don’t always stop, even when they should • Always use the available pedestrian facilities, such as a crossings or traffic lights • Never assume that a driver can see you or will stop for you. • Make sure drivers see you and have stopped before you cross the road or driveway. • Check for turning vehicles before you leave the kerb and when crossing driveways. • Always walk on the footpath. If there isn’t one, walk on the side of the road towards approaching cars not on the road
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Watch a video on Road Safety
Learn more about the Road Safety Education Program
For more information and activities, visit safetytown.com.au www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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STREET SMART
SAFETY IN CARS
Learn more about Child Carseats
Compare Child Carseats using the Child Restraint Evaluation Program
Key road safety messages to share with your kids: • Click clack front and back • Always buckle up safely • Get in and out of the car on the footpath side Seat Belt Safety The overriding basic rule for the safety of children in cars is for every child to use the right restraint on every trip. National Child Restraints laws: • Children up to the age of six months must be secured in an approved rearward facing restraint • Children aged from six months old but under four years old must be secured in either a rear or forward facing approved child restraint with an inbuilt harness • Children under four years old cannot travel in the front seat of a vehicle with two or more rows • Children aged from four years old but under seven years old must be secured in a forward facing approved child restraint with an inbuilt harness or an approved booster seat • Children aged from four years old but under seven years old cannot travel in the front seat of a vehicle with two or more rows, unless all other back seats are occupied by children younger than seven years in an approved child restraint or booster seat • Children aged from seven years old but under 16 years old who are too small to be restrained by a seatbelt properly adjusted and fastened are strongly recommended to use an approved booster seat • Children in booster seats must be restrained by a suitable lap and sash type approved seatbelt that is properly adjusted and fastened, or by a suitable approved child safety harness that is properly adjusted and fastened For detailed information on correct child restraint visit childcarseats.com.au
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FIVE-STEP TEST The five-step test can help assess whether your child is big enough to be safely restrained by a seatbelt. Answering Yes to each step means your child is ready for a seatbelt. The child should be able to:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Sit all the way back against the seat back Bend their knees comfortably over the front edge of the vehicle seat Sit with the sash belt across their mid-shoulder Sit with the lap belt across the top of their thighs Stay seated in this position for the whole trip.
OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER: • If your child is too small for a restraint specified for their age, they should stay in their current restraint for as long as necessary • If your child is too large for a restraint specified for their age, they may move to the next level of restraint • It is important to check that the restraint is properly fitted. • Children must use a child restraint on every trip • Children should always get in and out of the car using the Safety Door which is the rear kerb side door What you must not do • Do not carry a child on your lap. It is impossible to hold onto a child in a crash and it is illegal • Do not put two children in one seat belt as it is not safe and is illegal; in a crash they can be injured by colliding with each other • Do not sit a child on an adult’s lap with the seat belt around both of them. The child is likely to be crushed by the adult’s weight against the seat belt and it is illegal • Let children ride in the luggage space of cars. This is also illegal and very dangerous. All children must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint For more information and activities, visit safetytown.com.au
Up to 6 months
6 months to 4 years
4+ years
145cm or taller
Approved rear facing child car seat.
Approved rear or forward facing child car seat.
Approved forward facing child car seat or booster seat.
Suggested minimum height to use adult lap-sash seatbelt.
www.childsafetyhub.com.au
STREET SMART
GENERAL SAFETY IN THE CAR Drive carefully, take rests, take care in the heat Fasten your seat belt and make sure everyone is safely and appropriately restrained before starting the car. Many crashes are the result of driver error and fatigue. Rest stops help restore concentration, and beat drowsiness. Babies, toddlers and children lose fluid quickly so it is important when travelling on hot days, to allow extra time for stops and to provide plenty of cool water or fluids. Never leave your child in a car for any period of time without adult supervision.
Learn more about Mobile Phone Use
Watch a video on mobile phone laws
Driver Distraction Don’t let your children’s behaviour distract you. Keep them occupied by talking or singing to them; provide soft toys to play with. On long trips, provide unspillable drinks, healthy snack foods; and avoid milk-based drinks for carsick-prone children. Take regular driver breaks and let the children out to run around. SAFE TRAVEL • Do not leave your children in the car for any period of time without adult supervision • Provide plenty of cool water or fluids regularly during your journey • Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothes when travelling in hot weather • Travel in the cooler hours of the day • Stop every two hours so all passengers, including children, have an opportunity to move freely • Adjust restraint harness each time you use it, particularly in summer when children are wearing lightweight clothing • Be careful using a hood on a child restraint to protect a child from the sun as it may reduce air flow and lead to over-heating. A window visor or sunshade may be a better alternative • On every trip, short or long, take the time to check your children’s safety by re-checking the fit of their harnesses • Regularly service your car and ensure the air conditioning is working effectively before going on long trips
MOBILE PHONE USE The dangers of distraction Driving is a complex task. Anything that takes your mind or eyes off the road, or your hands off the wheel, not only compromises your safety, but that of everyone else on the road. Being distracted increases your chances of having a crash. It slows down your reaction times and puts you in danger of failing to see hazards such as traffic lights, stop signs or other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. Since 1 March 2020, mobile phone detection cameras, including fixed and transportable cameras, have been targeting drivers illegally using a mobile phone across NSW anywhere, anytime. Make sure you know the rules for mobile use when driving, and take time to find ways to reduce the temptation to use your phone illegally when driving. It is illegal to hold and use your mobile phone in NSW. For more detailed information on mobile phone use, visit roadsafety.transportnsw.nsw.gov.au/ stayingsafe/mobilephones/
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STREET SMART
KIDS IN HOT CARS - WARNING
Learn more about Kids Unattended in Cars
Watch a video on Hot Kids in Cars Safety by Chef Matt Moran
Why are children at risk? The temperature inside a parked car can be more than 30 degrees hotter than outside. Children are particularly at risk because they lose fluid quickly. Dehydrated children are at risk of suffering potentially life threatening heatstroke. There are a number of situations that can lead to an incident; changes in a normal routine or the keys being accidentally locked inside can result in a child being left in a car unintentionally. Parents sometimes choose to leave their child unattended, thinking they will only be gone for a few minutes. This can easily turn into ten to fifteen minutes and because the temperature rise in a vehicle is so rapid, even a short amount of time can place them in extreme danger. REDUCE THE RISKS • Never leave a child unattended in a car • If you have to leave the car, even for a minute, always take the children with you • Create a ‘look before you leave’ routine whenever you get out of the car • Leave something in the back seat that you will
need to take with you (e.g. handbag or laptop) as a reminder that you have a child with you • Remember that large cars heat up just as fast as smaller ones • Lock cars and secure keys out of reach of children to prevent children gaining access to and playing inside the car WHAT IF I FIND A CHILD UNATTENDED IN A CAR? • Look for the parents or carers. • If they can’t be found, if the child is distressed or you are concerned about the child’s health, don’t delay – call 000 and ask for the Fire Brigade. • Give your location, the vehicle registration number, the approximate age of the child and the condition of the child. • If the car is unlocked, open the doors and shield windows with a blanket etc. • Wait for emergency services, or safely try to remove the child from the vehicle if you are concerned about the child’s condition as every second counts!
KIDS IN HOT CARS - THE NUMBERS
30+
5,000 Every year across Australia, approximately 5,000 children have to be rescued from cars.
70°C Even on a cooler day, temperatures inside a car can reach well above 70°C
75%
of total temperature rise occurs within the first 5 minutes of parking a car.
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The temperature inside a parked car can be over 30 degrees hotter than outside.
4
Three quarters of children rescued from cars are aged under four years old.
STREET SMART
Learn more about Driveway Safety
Watch a video on Driveway Safety
DRIVEWAY SAFETY Simple steps can make all the difference We all have a role to play when it comes to driveway safety. Your young child counts on you to supervise them near vehicles, separate play areas from driveways and see where they are at all times. They’re counting on you On average, more than five children are killed and 47 seriously injured in driveways each year across Australia. In NSW, six children have been killed and 15 seriously injured in driveways since January 2013.
SUPERVISE
SEPARATE
SEE
We all have a role to play Tragic crashes can happen so quickly and are life shattering. Whether you’re a driveway user or owner, this campaign highlights that we all have a role to play when it comes to driveway safety. Children are counting on you to supervise them near vehicles, separate play areas from driveways and see where they are at all times.
When children are around driveways, they should be actively supervised by an adult who is holding their hand. Ensure that young children are placed securely in a vehicle before moving it.
Treat the driveway like a road. Do not let children use the driveway as a play area. Separate children’s play spaces from garages and driveways. Home design features can help, including fences, high handles on garage doors and self-closing doors or gates.
All vehicles have blind spots. While reversing sensors and cameras can assist with reducing blind spots, it can be difficult to notice a small child until it is too late. It is important not to become complacent. Drivers should get into the habit of walking around their vehicle before starting it, especially when leaving an area where a young child could be present.
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STREET SMART
RIDING SAFETY Riding a bike is a fun way to get around and reflective clothing when you are riding your bike, encourages a healthy lifestyle. Research shows that especially at night helmets reduce head injuries by up to 74 per cent in • Always dismount a bike and wheel it across the crashes with motor vehicles. Wearing a helmet from road or crossing the moment they start learning to ride will help your • Do not double anyone. Let your friends walk beside Download brochure: child to develop it as a habit and reduce the risk of your bike if necessary Safety on Wheels head injuries. • Keep your bike in control by keeping both hands on While your child may learn skills such as balancing, the handle bars at all times pedaling and steering quite easily, they are still • Drivers will also see you more easily if your bike has learning skills that help them to judge speed, distance a flag and reflectors on both front and rear and the direction of sound. Your young child will often • If you’re riding at night, have proper front and rear ride with their head down, concentrating on pedaling, lights fitted otherwise people cannot see you not the environment around them. Your child needs • Make yourself heard on the road - your bike must ongoing adult help in safe, off-road locations to have a horn or a bell gradually develop all their skills. The safest places • Check your tyres and brakes regularly. You don’t to ride bikes, scooters and skateboards are within want the tyre to blow out or your brakes to fail when fenced areas. This helps keep your child from riding coming down a hill or falling onto the footpath or the road. Key road safety messages to share with kids: SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS AND Younger kids ROLLERBLADES • Always wear a helmet when you ride or skate Foot scooter, skateboard and rollerblade riders • Ride your bike away from the road should always wear an approved helmet, properly Older kids fitted and fastened, as well as protective pads on their • Always wear a helmet when you ride or skate knees and elbows. Bicycle helmets with a standards • Ride your bike away from busy roads approved sticker, properly fitted and fastened provide TIPS FOR FAMILIES the best head protection. • Until at least 10 years old, your child should ride offRemind your child to be considerate of pedestrians. road, away from vehicles and driveways Your child should keep to the left and ride in a • Always wear a standards approved helmet when courteous manner that does not cause other road riding a bike in a public place. It is the law users to react suddenly. They need to slow down or • The helmet must be correctly fitted and comply walk in busy areas. with the Australian and New Zealand Standards. A Your child will be more visible wearing bright, helmet that is not correctly fitted and fastened does light coloured or reflective clothing. They should not provide enough protection in a crash. Children ride in a safe place off-road and away from vehicles aged up to 16 years can ride their bikes on the and driveways. Your child should avoid using foot All bicycle riders are required by law to wear an approved helmet that is securely fitted and fastened. footpath. Older children should use the bike lane scooters, skateboards and rollerblades in car parks sure on thethe helmet fits correctly. Check •Make Be visible road! Wear light coloured or the helmet andregularly on roads.for damage. It is best to replace a
Always wear a helmet when you ride or skate
helmet that has been involved in a crash, dropped on a hard surface, has cracked foam, or frayed or worn straps.ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET WHEN YOU RIDE OR SKATE Can you place just two fingers between your eyebrows and your helmet?
Can you fit just two fingers between the helmet strap and your chin?
Do the straps join in a ‘V’ just below your ears?
Has an adult checked your helmet?
For more information and activities, visit safetytown.com.au
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For more information on keeping your child safe on wheels visit the parents section on www.childsafetyhub.com.au safetytown.com.au/parents
bus flashing lights STREET SMART
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY GETTING TO AND FROM THE BUS STOP • Families are responsible for getting their child to and from the bus stop safely. • Always supervise your child until they are at least 10 and hold their hand when walking to and from the bus stop or interchange and when crossing the road. • When waiting for the bus, hold hands and wait as far back from the passing traffic as possible.
Driving near buses
STOP! one step back from the kerb LOOK! continuously both ways LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic THINK! whether it is safe to cross
Keep checking as you cross the road. Bus lights flash on the front and back of a bus when DRIVING NEAR BUSES the bus is picking up or setting down school children. Bus lights flash on the front and back of a bus A 40km/h speed limit applies bus lights flash. when when the bus is picking up or setting downThe school GETTING OFF THE BUS children. A 40km/h speed limit applies when bus speed limit is for all traffic lights travelling in the same direction When travelling by bus, your child is most at risk in flash. The speed limit is for all traffic travelling as the bus, whether the bus issame stationary or bus, moving. the minutes after they get off the bus. in the direction as the whether the bus is Meet your child AT the bus stop or interchange after school. NEVER wait on the opposite side of the road and call them across. If you cannot meet your child, organise for a trusted adult to take your place. Always wait until the bus has gone, then use a safe place to cross. Talk with your child about what to do: • if you are delayed and cannot meet them as usual • if they catch the wrong bus • if they get off the bus at the wrong bus stop.
Learn more about Bus Safety
Watch a video on Bus Safety
stationary or moving.
INFORMAL SCHOOL BUS STOPS Informal school bus stops Informal bus stops are not sign posted and are usually found in rural areas. They may be at the front
Informal bus stops are notofsign posted and are usually a property or on the side of the road. Drivers may find it difficult to see children at informal found in rural areas. They may be at the front of a property bus stops. Families should take special care when or on the side of the road.using these stops. Staying on the bus a bit longer to travel to another bus stop may reduce the need for your child to have to cross the road.
Download brochure: Bus Safety for School Students
Drivers may find it difficult to see children at informal bus more information, visit roadsafety.transport.nsw. stops. Families should takeForspecial care when using these gov.au/campaigns/be-bus-aware/index stops. Staying on the bus a bit longer to travel to another bus stop may reduce the need for your child to have to www.childsafetyhub.com.au cross the road.
GETTING OFF THE BUS Together, choose the safest place to cross the road and talk about:
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STREET SMART
LIGHT RAIL SAFETY
GUIDELINES FOR STATIONS, PLATFORMS AND ON BOARD THE TRAIN
Safety when travelling by light rail
Learn more about Light Rail Safety
Watch a video on Light Rail Safety
Light rail stops and platforms • Keep the pathway clear around you at the stop to allow others to walk past safely. • When waiting on the platform, stand back from the track behind the yellow line. • Wait until the light rail has come to a complete stop before attempting to board. • Never touch a moving vehicle. • If you have dropped something on the track, do not collect it yourself. Use the Emergency Help Point on the platform to receive assistance. • Be cautious when crossing the tracks. Never cross if a vehicle is approaching. Follow the guidelines for level crossing safety. Boarding and travelling on the light rail • Stand back to allow passengers to get off the light rail before you get on. • If travelling with a pram and young children, hold their hands when boarding to ensure they are not left behind. • Do not board at the rear and front single doors if you have a pram, bike or other large item. Please note that bikes are not allowed on Newcastle light rail. • Mind the gap and be careful getting on and off the light rail. • Take a seat if one is available or hold onto a handrail. • If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of others, or in an emergency, please: • Move away from danger if possible • Alert the driver by using the Emergency Help Point on board • Listen for instructions from the driver
Safety when travelling by metro and train Metro video help points Each Metro station will have up to twelve video help points. When the blue button is pressed for general assistance the call will be connected via a video feed directly to staff at the control centre. When the green emergency button is pressed, the call will be prioritised and a trained operations control centre staff member will respond to your emergency.
• Do not rush through the ticket gates, the doors of the metro, train or lift, as you can get injured. • If you have luggage, use the lifts to get to and from the platform. • When using the escalator, stand to the left and hold onto the side rails. • When waiting on a train platform, stand back from the track behind the yellow line and wait until the train has come to a complete stop. • Do not touch the metro or train doors, or the metro station platform screen doors when they are opening and closing. • Stand back to allow passengers to get off the metro or train before you get on. • Mind the gap when getting on and off the metro or train. • Keep a hold of prams when on board as metro and train services can move suddenly. • Once on board, either take a seat or hold onto the handrail. • Offer your seat to someone who needs it more than you. This includes customers who are older, have a disability, impaired mobility, are pregnant or travelling with children. • Keep your head, arms and legs clear of the aisle when seated. • Try to avoid moving between carriages while a metro or train is moving. If you need to, always take care. • Never attempt to get on or off a moving metro or train: - after the departure whistle has blown - when the “doors closing” signal sounds - when the station staff announce the trains doors closing. • If you are concerned about your safety or others: - move away from the danger into another carriage - use the Emergency Help Points to alert staff and listen for instructions. Travelling with prams and children There are some important safety measures to be aware of when travelling with prams and young children:
• • •
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Strap your child in securely and hold on to your pram. Apply the pram’s parking brake and park parallel to the edge of the platform, footpath or water’s edge. Stand behind the line on platforms and away from the curb at bus stops.
STREET SMART
• • • • • • •
Board with the pram in front, lifting the front wheels over the gap. Place prams out of the way of other passengers or staff. When young children are not in the pram, hold their hands when getting on and off public transport or on escalators and stairs. Where available, use the lift or ramp to get to and from platforms, stops and wharves. Keep children seated and close to you when waiting for and when on board public transport Never leave a pram or children unattended. If you have any concerns or need assistance, ask transport staff.
• •
• • •
If the service is crowded, it may not be safe to board the light rail. You may need to wait for the next service.
•
•
•
• •
When young children are not in the pram, keep them close to you and hold their hand when boarding. When on board, hold onto young children as light rail services can move suddenly. Do not enter the rear or front single doors with a pram.
• •
• Security on the rail network • There are more than 10,000 CCTV cameras across the train network in NSW and more than 1,340
CCTV cameras across the Sydney Metro network, with 38 CCTV cameras on each metro train. Police and transport officers regularly patrol metro and train services and stations. On Friday and Saturday nights between 3.00pm and 6.00am, Police Transport Command officers both in high visibility uniforms and plain clothing, patrol public transport to improve security and reduce crime. For safety, sit near other passengers at the station and on the train. On the train, sit near the guard’s compartment indicated with the blue light. On the platform, stand in an area covered by CCTV and close to Emergency Help Points. If travelling at night, stand where it is brightly lit. If you’re using a station car park and plan to return after dark, try to park in a well-lit area close to the station entrance. Make sure all of the windows are locked and valuables are out of sight. Turn your car alarm on. If you see bad behaviour or feel unsafe, inform staff straight away. In an emergency, call 000 or use the Emergency Help Points to speak to staff for assistance. Emergency Help Points are located on metro trains and trains and at least one fitted at each station. If you need immediate help, please contact the police on 000 or talk with staff.
Download brochure: Heads Up - Play it safe around Light Rail
Learn more about the Sydney Metro
For more information, visit transportnsw.info/travelinfo/safety-security/light-rail-safety
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Take care when stepping on and off the train.
Safety checklist – keep your child safe Teaching children how to be safe around trains is just as important as teaching them to look both ways before crossing the road. Use this checklist the next time you catch a train together. The good habits they learn from you could save their life.
Track safety
✓
Always stay off train tracks
✓
Remember trains can’t stop suddenly or swerve
If you drop something on the tracks, never try to get it yourself. Jumping onto the tracks is very dangerous because a train might be coming. Always ask station staff for help to get it back.
A train travelling at 60km per hour (the same speed as a car on a main road) takes the length of two and a half football fields to stop! Even if a driver sees you, they may not be able to stop in time. Because they travel on tracks, they can’t swerve if something is in their path.
✓
Platform safety
✓
Stay behind the yellow line When you are walking on the platform or waiting for a train, stay well back from the yellow line in case you accidentally slip or get pushed. Always walk, and wait behind the yellow line.
Stop, look, listen, think
✓
Wait for the lights and bells to finish
✓
Use the lifts to get to and from the platform. Always keep a firm hold of your pram at the station and ensure the brake is on and the pram is parked parallel to the tracks.
Always use the footpath Only cross at pedestrian level crossings designed for people to cross. Walk between the double yellow lines on the footpath and keep looking left, right and ahead.
How do I get help?
✓
Ask a staff member in uniform
✓
Press the Emergency Help Point button
If you need help or feel unsafe, ask staff on the train, station staff or police. They are there to help you.
In an emergency, look for the orange Emergency Help Point button on the train or platform and press it. When staff answer, tell them what happened – it’s just like talking on the phone. They can see you on camera and will send someone to help.
There is a gap between the train and platform – when you get on and off the train you could fall into the gap and get hurt. Always hold an adult’s hand and watch where you step.
Travelling with prams
Be extra alert before you cross at a pedestrian level crossing: Stop behind the gate or yellow line. Look left and right for trains coming. Listen for trains – they might be closer than you think. Think is it safe to cross? Am I holding an adult’s hand? If there is no danger, you can walk. Keep on looking left, right and ahead.
If the pedestrian level crossing has lights or bells, never cross while they are flashing or ringing. Always wait until they finish, then stop, look, listen and think before you cross.
Mind the gap
The platform is not a place to run, bounce balls or play games. You can do that at the park! Always walk, and hold an adult’s hand on the platform.
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Always use a bridge, overpass or crossing Tracks are for trains only. Bridges, overpasses and pedestrian level crossings are for people. When you have to get to the other side of the tracks, always use the bridge, overpass or pedestrian level crossing to get there safely.
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Move and report If you ever feel unsafe: Move to another carriage or a safer part of the station. Report what you’re afraid of. Tell the adult who is with you, station staff or a police officer, or press the Emergency Help Point button. You can also call Triple Zero (000).
Visit transportnsw.info
STREET SMART
TRAIN SAFETY
Learn more about Train Safety
HERE’S SOME ADVICE THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE: • Stop, look, listen and think at level crossings. • Obey the safety signs at every railway crossing and cross at marked crossings only. • Stay on the path. Listen and look in both directions for approaching trains. • If the red lights are flashing or the gate is closed, a train is coming so keep clear of the tracks. • Never jump fences, gates or barriers. This is extremely dangerous and it is very likely the oncoming train is close to the crossing. • If a train is coming, wait for it to pass and then stop, look and listen again before crossing as another train may be approaching. • You might not hear a train, especially when using your earphones or mobile phone. Never assume a
train is a long way off. • Don’t ride bicycles, skateboards, skates or rollerblades across any pedestrian crossing. • Never assume that it is safe to cross when the lights are still flashing. Even if a train has passed, there may be another train coming in the other direction. Only enter the crossing when the lights have stopped flashing or the gate has opened. It takes a lot to stop an eight-carriage train travelling at 100kmh. The braking distance for a train is approximately five football fields (500m). Information reproduced with permission of Transport Sydney Trains – www.sydneytrains.info
RAIL CROSSING SAFETY Always cross train tracks using a footbridge or underpass, or at designated pedestrian railway crossings. Crossing anywhere else is illegal and extremely dangerous. • Ensure that you are not distracted by your mobile phone and remove headphones. Learn more about Railway • Obey the safety signs at every railway crossing and Crossing Safety cross at marked crossings only. • Stay on the path. Listen and look in both directions for approaching trains. • If the red lights are flashing or the gate is closed, a train is coming so keep clear of the tracks. • Never jump fences, gates or barriers. This is extremely dangerous and it is very likely the oncoming train is close to the crossing. • If a train is coming, wait for it to pass and then stop,
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look and listen again before crossing as another train may be approaching. You might not hear a train, especially when using your earphones or mobile phone. Never assume a train is a long way off. Don’t ride bicycles, skateboards, skates or rollerblades across any pedestrian crossing. Never assume that it is safe to cross when the lights are still flashing. Even if a train has passed, there may be another train coming in the other direction. Only enter the crossing when the lights have stopped flashing or the gate has opened. For more information, visit transportnsw.info/ travel-info/using-public-transport/accessible-travel/ access-to-trains/level-crossing-safety
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STOP ON RED SIGNAL
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Left Sign: Stop before crossing. Centre Sign: Stop if the red lights are flashing. Right Sign: Give way at the crossing, be prepared to stop.
STREET SMART
FERRY SAFETY Catching a ferry is a great way to add fun and excitement to family outings – which makes it tempting to play on wharves and on board. Running around can be dangerous. With so much water around, it’s important to be careful. Be at the wharf at least five minutes before your ferry is due to leave so you have time to board safely, and remember that ferries are not playgrounds. BOARDING AND TRAVELLING ON FERRIES • Allow all passengers to get off the ferry before you get on. The crew holding the gangway will let you know when it is safe to board. • When on board, take a seat if one is available or hold onto a handrail. • Do not sit on the bow or side of the vessel. • Do not lean out the windows or stand on the seats. • Ensure luggage, bags and personal items are stowed correctly and are not blocking the aisle. • Watch your step when using the stairs and hold onto the handrails as the ferry can move suddenly. • When waiting to disembark, stand behind the yellow area on the vessels and follow instructions from the ferry crew. • Speak with the crew if travelling with a bike or surfboard. They will advise if you can bring it onto the ferry and where to stow it. • All ferries have life jackets. Please use as directed by staff. SAFETY HINTS • Don’t run around on the wharf, and don’t go near the edge. Hold an adult’s hand when you get on and off. • Yellow and black stripes on wharves mean danger. Stay away from them – they are a no-go zone.
• Don’t run around on board, and never climb on or over railings. It is easy to fall over, and you could even fall into the water. • Look for the big orange Emergency Help Point on wharves. In an emergency (like someone falling into the water) press the button and talk into it like a phone. Staff can see you and talk to you, and will send someone straight away. • Tell the ferry crew if you feel like you are in trouble or need help. They are there to keep you safe.
Learn more about Ferry Safety
PRAMS AND STROLLERS • Small children need a helping hand to get through ticket gates. When you travel as a family, or with a pram or stroller, use the wide gates. • Keep a firm hold while you are on the wharf, and use the brakes. • Larger prams and strollers may not fit on gangways and will need to be collapsed before boarding. • If possible on board, collapse and store strollers and prams, and sit your child on your lap or on the seat next to you. • If you prefer to keep your child in the pram or stroller, put the brakes on and hold it firmly at all times. Ferries are just one type of public transport in NSW you and your family can use. You can also travel on trains, buses and light rail. What they all have in common is how much they care about the safety of you and your family. Please follow any special rules they have to keep you safe. For more information, visit transportnsw.info/ travel-info/safety-security/safety-when-travellingby-ferry
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OUTDOOR SAFETY SUN SAFETY Cancer Council NSW recommends protecting your skin in five ways: 1. SLIP – on clothing that covers your arms and legs 2. SLOP – on 50+ or higher, broadspectrum sunscreen 3. SLAP – on a broad brimmed bucket or legionnaire hat 4. SEEK – shade 5. SLIDE – on wrap-around sunglasses with Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067:2003 and have an eye protection factor of (EPF) of 10. CLOTHING (SLIP) Protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and loose clothing with a close weave can prevent skin damage from the sun. Some clothing is labelled with information about its ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). UPF-40 or above offers very high protection and UPF-15 and above offers good protection. SUNSCREEN (SLOP) Broad spectrum sunscreen means it protects you from both types of radiation (UVA and UVB).4 The higher the sun protection factor (SPF) number, the better it protects you against sunburn. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen, meaning they don’t get enough protection.2 Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before going in the sun and then reapplied every two hours. HATS (SLAP) Choose a hat that is broad-brimmed or with a flap at the front and back (legionnaire style) so that your child’s face, ears and neck are protected. A hat made of close-weave fabric will reduce the amount of light that gets through. Baseball caps and sun visors are not recommended as they do not provide enough protection. SHADE (SEEK) Shade is more ideal than full sun, however sunburn can still occur in partial shade or when cloudy. SUNGLASSES (SLIDE) Sunglasses can protect your child’s eyes from short and long term damage. Sunglasses designed to wrap around the eyes do this well. Always purchase sunglasses which meet the Australian Standard (AS/ NZS 1067:2003). Sunglasses with an eye protection factor (EPF) value of 9 or 10 protect from almost all UVR.5 Toy sunglasses are not covered by the Standard and should not be used for sun protection. Sunglasses or goggles at the snow will also help to reduce exposure from glare and reflected UVR.
Learn more about Sun Safety
Remember: • A suntan is not healthy. • More care should be taken when your child is out in the sun near highly reflective surfaces such as snow or water. • Babies and children are at greater risk of heat stress than adults. • Never leave a baby or child alone in a car. If you need to leave, always take your child with you. • Remember to slip, slop, slap, seek and slide Clothing (slip) • Encourage your children to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Sunscreen (slop) • Broad-spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with a high SPF (50) should always be applied to children when playing outdoors. Apply generously and frequently (at least every two hours), particularly after swimming (always follow directions on sunscreen bottles). Hats (slap) • Ensure your child always wears a hat when outdoors which covers their face, ears and neck. Shade (seek) • Limit your children’s exposure to UVR. Seek shade between 11am and 3pm (daylight saving time) when UV levels are at their highest. • Children under 12 months of age should not be exposed to direct sunlight.6 • When travelling in a car with your baby, make sure they are shaded. The sunlight which passes through the car window can burn your child’s skin. Sunglasses (slide) Ensure your child wears sunglasses that meet the Australian Standards. Water and dehydration • Active children should be encouraged to drink regularly to prevent thirstiness. Regular drink breaks during activity are important. • Vigorous physical activity should be avoided in hot weather. • Seek urgent medical assistance if your child shows any signs of heat stroke. • Extra care needs to be taken with sick children or babies in hot weather. Extra fluids, such as breast milk or water, should be given to prevent the risk of dehydration. For more information visit cancer.org.au www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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Learn more about Beach Safety
BEACH SAFETY Millions of people visit at least one of Australia’s beautiful beaches every year. These famous beaches are not only enjoyed by lucky Australians but also visitors from all over the world – some who come for a visit, and others who choose to make Australia their home. Although Australian beaches may look amazing, they can be unpredictable and hide some dangers that every visitor should be aware of. Here you will find some very helpful info and advice from our Lifeguards on beach safety, to ensure you enjoy your visit to the beach and stay safe! Always swim between the red and yellow flags When you see red and yellow flags on a beach, it indicates that there is currently a lifesaving service operating on that beach. The lifeguards have chosen a section of the beach that is best for swimming and they will closely supervise this area. Lifeguards pay more attention to the area between the red and yellow flags than any other part of the beach. Read the safety signs Before you go on to the beach be sure to read the safety signs. This will ensure you are aware of any warnings or dangers on the beach. You can also find other helpful information to make your day at the beach more enjoyable. You might also find single signs placed on the beach to highlight specific warnings.
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Ask a lifeguard for safety advice Lifeguards are highly trained and very knowledgeable about beach safety and conditions. When you arrive at the beach look for and identify the lifeguards. Feel free to ask them about the day’s conditions, as well any additional beach safety advice they might have for that specific beach – because every beach is different. Swim with a friend Not only is swimming with a friend (or family member) a fun way to enjoy the beach, it is also very sensible. While you are swimming together you can keep an eye out for each other, and if further assistance is required, one person could call or go for help. If everyone swimming together knows their own limits it is a good idea to share this with those around you so you can all stay within everyone’s comfortable limits. If you need help, stay calm and attract attention Even the most careful people can find themselves out of their limits in the water. If you are not feeling comfortable in the water and you require a lifeguard’s assistance to get back to shore, stay calm, raise your arm in the air and wave it from side to side. This will attract the attention of a lifeguard who will be able to come to your assistance. You should conserve your energy by floating on your back and staying calm. This will ensure you have the energy to remain afloat until further aid arrives.
OUTDOOR SAFETY
RIP CURRENTS Rips are the number one hazard on Australian beaches. The best way to avoid a rip is to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. Rip currents are strong currents of water flowing away from shore through the surf zone. They are a strong force and on any given day, there are about 17,000 rips at beaches around Australia. The Facts about Rip Currents There are many myths about the ocean. Many people think it’s just tourists and poor swimmers who get caught in rips currents. In fact, it’s young men aged 15-39 years who are most likely to die in rips. Rips are the number one hazard on Australian beaches. The best way to avoid a rip is to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. How to Spot a Rip Current Rips are complex, can quickly change shape and location, and at times, are difficult to see. The things to look for are; • Deeper, dark-coloured water. • Fewer breaking waves. • A rippled surface surrounded by smooth waters. • Anything floating out to sea or foamy, discoloured, sandy, water flowing out beyond the waves. Rips don’t always show all of these signs at once.
Watch The Facts about Rip Currents video
How to Survive a Rip Current • Relax – stay calm and float to conserve your energy. • Raise – raise your arm and attract attention from lifeguards or lifesavers. • Rescue – the lifeguards or lifesavers will be on their way to help you. • While floating, rip currents may flow in a circular pattern and return you to an adjacent sandbar • You may escape the rip current by swimming parallel to the beach, towards the breaking waves. • Reassess your situation. If what you’re doing isn’t working, try one of the other options until you’re rescued or return to shore.
Learn How to Spot a Rip
Learn How to Survive a Rip
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SUN SAFETY AND HEAT STROKE
Learn more about how to beat the heat
Learn more about sun safety and heat stroke
Download the sun safety and heat stroke fact sheet
What is sun safety and heat stroke? Enjoying the sun during outdoor activities is a favourite pastime for many people living in Australia. Too much sun, however, has been shown to cause skin damage and skin cancer. Sun safety practices can protect you and your children from the damaging effects of the sun and reduce the likelihood of long term harm. How may a child be affected? Young children produce more body heat, sweat less and their temperature rises at a faster rate, putting them at a greater risk of heat related illness. Heat Exhaustion • Very hot and extreme heat conditions can lead to heat exhaustion in children. Signs of heat exhaustion are weakness, nausea and/or giddiness, pale appearance and breathlessness. Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that can develop into heat stroke. Signs and symptoms • Looking unwell and more irritable than usual • Pale and clammy skin • Sleepy and floppy • Fewer wet nappies than usual • Dark urine (normal is light straw colour) • Refusing to drink • Intense thirst (but as the baby gets weaker, he/she may drink less) • Dry skin, mouth and eyes (no tears when crying) What to do – first aid • If you think your young child is suffering from heat exhaustion, seek medical advice. • Move to a cool area and remove all extra clothes • Try to give your child drinks (unless unconscious and not able to swallow) • An older child with heat exhaustion should be offered water or diluted fruit juice (1 part juice in 4 parts water) • Cover your child with cool damp cloths or sponge he/she down with water
Heat Stroke • Heat stroke occurs when a child’s body temperature rises too high, too quickly. A child’s normal body temperature ranges between 36.50°C and 37.50°C. When a child suffers from heat stroke, their temperature can rise to 40.50°C or higher. Humid weather and dehydration can make it difficult for the child to sweat and cool themselves down enough to maintain a healthy temperature. If severe enough, it can cause damage to the body organs and be fatal. • Temperatures inside a car can reach over 700°C, even on a cool day. The car increases in temperature the most within the first five minutes of parking a car. Leaving the windows down only provides a small drop in temperature. As a result children left in cars are at a very high risk of heat stroke. Signs and symptoms All the signs of heat exhaustion as above plus: • Rising body temperature • Red, hot and dry skin • Rapid breathing • Vomiting • Confusion • Coma (not responding when touched or called) What to do – first aid Immediately call 000 and ask for an ambulance • Move to a cool area and remove all extra clothes • If the baby or child is conscious and able to drink, give small sips of cool fluids • Bring their temperature down using any method available (sponging with cool water, cool bath, or covering with cool damp cloths) • If unconscious, lay the child on their side (recovery position) and check they can breathe properly. Support their head with your hand • Perform CPR if needed
For more information visit: • https://kidshealth.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/sun-safetyand-heat-stroke • https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/ beattheheat/Pages/babies-children-hot-weather.aspx
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OUTDOOR SAFETY
KIDS ON BOATS It’s important to teach kids about safe boating right from the start of their boating life. Teaching them about safe boating practices such as navigation, safety equipment and emergency procedures will ensure they have a safe and enjoyable time on the water. Some things to consider when introducing your children to boating include: • Showing them around the boat, where all safety equipment is located and how to use it in case of an emergency • Teaching them the rules about keeping a good lookout, keeping a safe distance from others, travelling at a safe speed and reducing wash • Educating them about keeping all parts of their body inside the vessel when the boat is underway. WEAR A LIFEJACKET Lifejackets save lives and are the most important piece of safety equipment on any recreational vessel. Every person on board must have access to a lifejacket that is the correct size and in good condition. New rules apply in NSW and lifejackets must be worn in many situations, including if you are: • Under 12 years of age at all times on a vessel under 4.8 metres and in open areas of vessels under 8 metres when underway
• On all boats less than 4.8 metres by everyone, when boating alone, at night, on open (ocean) waters or on alpine waters • On a personal watercraft (PWC) • On canoes and kayaks in many circumstances • Being towed ie water-skiing, wakeboarding, tubing etc • Instructed to by the skipper. Older children are encouraged to wear an appropriate lifejacket at all times, especially when in open areas of a boat.
Learn more about Wearing a Lifejacket
SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE BOATING The skipper of every boat is responsible for the safety of their vessel and the people on board. As the skipper, take time to ensure the boat is ready and consider the safety issues associated with your activity and the waterway. Be mindful that hazardous situations can develop with children on board, so ensure you are aware of all children’s positions and movements on the boat at all times. For more information on boating safely with children, visit rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime or call the info line 13 12 36. Further information on lifejackets can be found at rms.nsw.gov.au/lifejackets or lifejacketwearit.com.au. www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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PETS AND CHILDREN Things to remember: We’ve long loved dogs for being man’s best friend, but not so well known is that our pets can actually make us physically and mentally healthier. Just the presence of our pets can lift our spirits and help us relax. Physical health benefits Research has shown that owning a pet can have a number of physical health benefits • Increased cardiovascular health (lower blood pressure, lower triglycerides and in men, lower cholesterol) • Increased physical activity. Dogs especially help us get out and enjoy the outdoors while getting some regular exercise. They are great motivators and personal trainers, never wanting to miss a training session no matter the weather. • Fewer visits to the doctor • Growing up with a dog (and other pets to a lesser extent) during infancy may help to strengthen the immune system and may reduce the risk of allergies • Children who have pets are less likely to miss days of school due to illness
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Psychological benefits Research has shown that owning a pet can have a number of psychological benefits • A study of school children showed that pet owners were more popular but also seemed more empathetic. • Those who have pets including children or adolescents have been shown to have higher selfesteem. Teenagers who own pets have a more positive outlook on life and report less loneliness, restlessness, despair and boredom. • Pet owners report less depression and appear to cope with grief, stress and loss better than nonpet owners. • Pets enhance social connectedness and social skills and are great conversation starters! • Pets are also great caregivers. They keep us company when we’re sick or feeling down. They can make us feel safe while we’re home alone and they keep an eye on the house while we’re out.
For more information visit: www.rspca.org.au
OUTDOOR SAFETY
OFF-ROAD MOTORCYCLE SAFETY Off road motorcycles are 2-wheeled vehicles that require the user to shift their body weight while riding. People do not need a licence to ride them as long as they are not on public roads. Off-road motorcycles are popular for sports and recreation but also farm use as well. How may a child be injured? Injuries occur in a variety of settings (e.g. at home, on farms, in recreational areas and at Motocross competitions). Children sustain injuries from collisions, rollovers, falls and from jumps. Children may collide with objects and other riders, causing injuries to themselves and others. Loss of control is the most common cause of injury. This is because children aged less than 10 years lack hazard perception and the ability to control speed. Falls • Falls may result in severe fractures, abdominal, head and chest injuries. Cuts and bruises • Children may sustain cuts and bruises, particularly when they are not wearing full body protective clothing. Strangulation • Children may suffer strangulation if riding under a clothesline or fence. This injury occurs during times of poor visibility or if terrain is uneven. Struck by object • Children may collide with objects and other riders, causing injury to themselves and others. • Children may be injured when the motorcycle tips over and falls on them. In NSW between 2003 and 2012 there were 13 deaths of children aged 0-17 from off-road motorcycles, otherwise know as “dirt bikes”. The likelihood of serious injuries rapidly increases when riders start doing jumps. Children injured from jumps suffer more severe injuries. Is there a Law or an Australian Standard for offroad motorcycles? Riders of motorcycles on NSW roads must be at least 16 years and nine months and obtain a rider licence by completing a training course and knowledge test. However there are no requirements to use motorcycles off-road on private property. Significant fines apply for riding off-road motorcycles on public land, which includes State Forests and National Parks.
SKATEBOARDS, FOOT SCOOTERS AND ROLLERBLADES The law A pedestrian includes “a person in or on a wheeled recreational device or wheeled toy”. This includes rollerblades, a skateboard, scooter, unicycle or similar wheeled device: • Foot scooters, skateboards and rollerblades may be ridden on footpaths unless signs specifically prohibit them, however, riders must keep to the left and give way to other pedestrians • Powered foot scooters cannot be registered and can only be used on private land • On separated bicycle and pedestrian paths, foot scooter, skateboard and rollerblade riders must use the section designated for bicycles, but must keep out of the path of any bicycle • Foot scooters, skateboards and rollerblades can only be used on the road during daylight hours • They cannot be used on roads with a dividing line or median strip or a speed limit greater than 50km/h, or a one-way road with more than one marked lane
Learn more about skateboards, foot scooters and rollerblade safety
Safety advice • On the footpath, riders of foot scooters, skateboards or rollerblades should not threaten pedestrians, especially the elderly – they may need to slow down or dismount in busy areas • To improve safety and enjoyment, foot scooters, skateboards and rollerblades are best ridden in recreational areas designated for their use • Foot scooter, skateboard and rollerblade riders should wear helmets and protective gear such as knee and elbow pads
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PLAYGROUND SAFETY
Learn more about Playground Safety
Playgrounds and playground injuries Playing in playgrounds is great for your child’s physical, social and thinking development. Most playground injuries are minor – cuts, bruises and a few tears are the most likely dramas. But every now and then falls from playground equipment can lead to more serious injuries. The most common playground injuries are fractures and dislocations. These injuries happen when children fall from equipment like climbing frames, monkey bars and slides. Children are most often injured falling from climbing play equipment like monkey bars, mostly because these types of equipment are high up. But children also hurt themselves falling from slides, swings and trampolines. Preschoolers and primary school-age children are most likely to hurt themselves, because they’re still developing physical coordination, muscle strength – and the judgment they need to work out whether jumping from the monkey bars is a good idea! Playground safety: supervision and skills The best way to help your child avoid bumps and bruises in playgrounds is to actively supervise your child at play. By staying close to your child, especially when they’re trying something new or complicated, you can help keep playground visits safe and give your child the confidence to develop movement skills. It’s also important to choose activities and equipment that suit your child’s skills and abilities. These guidelines can help when you’re deciding what equipment is best for your child: • If your child is under three years, try to stick to playground equipment less than 1 m in height. • If your child is aged 3-5 years, try to stick to playground equipment less than 1.5 m in height. If your child is older than five years, try to stick to
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equipment that is no higher than 2 m off the ground. • If you give your child plenty of opportunities to play and practice, they’ll keep developing the skills they need for safely using and enjoying monkey bars, climbing frames, swings and slides. For example, once your child can climb confidently, they could try climbing a short ladder with your support. Safe playground equipment and environments To keep children safe and avoid injury at playgrounds, it’s a good idea to check the safety of the playground equipment and environment: • Buckle your child into swings if buckles are available. Your child will be less likely to fall out. • Check that the equipment is in good condition and the general environment has no obvious safety hazards, like sharp sticks. • Check the temperature of playground equipment like metal slides, poles, barriers and surfaces. Materials like metal, rubber and artificial turf can heat up in the sun and become hot enough to burn. • Look for a safe ground surface in your playground. The equipment should be set in a thick layer of material like organic mulch, which will cushion falls. It could also be soft rubber flooring. If hard surfaces are exposed or mulch levels are too low, report it to your local council. • Look for a playground that has shadecloth over some or all of the equipment, or at least some shade nearby. • Look for a playground with a fence around it. This will help to stop young children from running on to nearby roads. It also makes it much easier if you’re looking after several children at once. Source: Raising Children Network
OUTDOOR SAFETY
KIDS ON FARMS Tips to help keep kidssafe on farms environment. Dangers come especially from farm machinery, chemicals, water and animals.
PLAY SAFETY Farms provide a wonderful environment for children to grown up in and to visit. However, they are working environments and there can be many dangers and hazards for children. These safety tips are aimed at reducing injuries so that farms continue to be great places to live, learn and have fun. VEHICLE SAFETY Vehicles and machinery are an essential part of farm life. Unfortunately they are also a leading cause of injury.
• Children should not ride on tractors or in the back of utes. • Children should not ride quad bikes or be carried as passengers on quad bikes. • Always supervise children when vehicles are being moved. Hold hands with young children. • Ensure all children are appropriately and correctly restrained when travelling in vehicles on the farm. • Take keys out of vehicles and machinery when not in use and put out of reach of children. • Always ensure children wear helmets and other protective equipment when riding bikes. • Check that the bike is suited to the child’s size and ability.
Watch a video on Farm Safety for Kids
Learn more about Keeping Kids Safe on Farms
FARM WATER SAFETY Q. Where do toddlers commonly drown on farms? A. The most common location for toddler drowning deaths on farms are dams. However, the farm environment has a range of other water locations including dams, troughs, irrigation channels, water tanks and swimming pools. Q. How many children drown on farms? A. On average 4 children under the age of five drown in farm dams every year and there are approximately 3 hospitalisations for every drowning death. Q. How do I keep my child safe? A. In rural areas, it is not always feasible to fence off large water bodies such as lakes or dams, so Royal Life Saving suggests parents create a Child Safe Play Area. Royal Life Saving has also developed the Keep Watch @ The Farm program which provides information and useful resources to improve parent/carer awareness of drowning prevention strategies on farms. Q. What is a Child Safe Play Area? A. A Child Safe Play Area is a carefully planned, designated location which is securely fenced and helps to prevent a young child from entering the farm without adult supervision. Pool fencing requirements, including appropriate ‘child resistant’ gates and latches, can be used as a guide in planning a safe play area. For more information visit www.keepwatch.com. au for Fact Sheet No. 6 Child Safe Play Areas. Q. Why do parents leave their children unsupervised? A. There are many reasons why a parent’s attention can be diverted from their child. Busy lifestyles, phone calls, visitors, preparing meals and other siblings are just some of the things which demand attention. The Keep Watch program advocates for supervision to be supported by fenced Child Safe Play Areas, water awareness and resuscitation skills.. been educating Australian parents and carers on how to keep their children safe when in, on, or around the water in a variety of locations. We are now tailoring the approach to locations with specific hazards – like those found on a farm.
For more information you can also visit: farmsafe.org.au
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DRUG AWARENESS
DRUG AND ALCOHOL AWARENESS
Learn more about Alcohol Awareness
Talking to your kids aged 15-17 For some parents, talking to your teenager about alcohol and setting rules and boundaries to keep them safe, can be daunting. Many parents feel that it’s their responsibility to create strategies and educate their children on when, where and how to drink. However some parents can struggle with how to provide this guidance. It’s vital that parents keep the lines of communication open through the teen years. Make sure you have frank discussions about alcohol. • Debunk some of the popular and unhelpful myths – e.g. not every parent provides their child with alcohol. • Be prepared. Teenagers will raise the topic of alcohol if and when they’re ready to talk. Be ready to have the conversation and address their queries – that’s when they’re most open to hear your advice. Remember to plan what you want to say to them ahead of time. • Be aware of your own role modelling when it comes to alcohol. Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s attitude and behaviours towards alcohol by being role models for their kids. Tips for the talk • Pick your time. The car can be a great place and time for constructive conversations – they’re a captive audience and there’s also the benefit that they don’t have to be facing you. • Be consistent in your own behaviour. It’s easier for teens to model their behaviour on positive role models when it’s consistent. • Draw the line between adult activities and child activities. Don’t be afraid to let your child know that some things aren’t appropriate for teens. If you believe that drinking alcohol is only something that adults do, make sure they hear your views on the matter. • Challenge unfounded statements. If your child tells you that ‘everyone else drinks’, ask them to provide proof. • Challenge their beliefs. Be aware that teenagers are likely to want to drink alcohol believing it will help them fit in. They need to know they can fit in without drinking. • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your GP or local health professional is available for you and your teen. Binge drinking – putting things in perspective Binge drinking is not just about the number of drinks you have – it’s about drinking with the specific intention of ‘getting drunk’. Binge drinking receives a great deal of media attention and can lead to shaping teens beliefs that
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this is the norm. There’s no denying that there are many young people who drink in risky ways, but there are many teenagers who are trying their best to keep themselves and their friends as safe as possible. Remember: kids absorb your drinking. Australian research shows that in 2011 around 63% of 17 year olds were not considered to be current drinkers, so this finding may challenge the belief that everybody is doing it. However of those 17 year olds who were considered to be current drinkers, around 19% drank in a risky way (more than 4 drinks) at least once in the week before they were surveyed. That means there’s only a minority of kids who are binge drinking – but they’re still obvious and influential. Some young people ‘preload’ to save money – quickly drinking large amounts of alcohol at home before heading out. Often they’re already intoxicated before they walk out the front door. By the time they get to where they’re going their judgement is clouded, causing them to continue drinking more than they intended to, so they don’t save money at all. If your teen really believes getting drunk every weekend is normal, there could be other factors at play. Perhaps there are other influences in their lives (peers, older siblings, relatives) or problems that you’re unaware of. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. Talking to your kids aged 9-14 Kids are interested in what’s going on around them and seeing how their role models use alcohol is part of this. So it’s important to start talking to your kids about alcohol. And the right time to start is right now. Research shows that parents have the greatest impact on shaping their children’s attitude to alcohol and future drinking behaviour. The role alcohol plays in your life will have an effect on them too. They might ask you about alcohol and what it’s like to drink it. Always answer honestly. • Talk to your child about alcohol and the importance of drinking in moderation. Explain what happens to the body when you drink too young and too much. • Set rules – the most important one being not to drink. Be sure to discuss this rule and agree on the consequences if not followed. • Teach them to say ‘no’ and that not everyone drinks. • Ask them how they feel about you drinking alcohol. What attitudes have they already formed about it? It will help you reflect on your own drinking behaviours and open up the lines of communication.
DRUG AND ALCHOHOL DRUGAWARENESS AWARENESS
Don’t turn a foolie this Schoolies Schoolies. It’s a little word for a big week. It’s the holiday Year 12s all over Australia have been waiting for. But above all, it’s the chance to celebrate the end of school…finally. Hold up. Before you race out there, make sure you’re prepared. Not knowing the risks or what to do in an emergency can turn things ugly, fast. Wherever you’re planning on spending schoolies, it’s always good to have a plan. Around alcohol people can change and the risks are high. So here are a few tips for a fun, safe Schoolies Week: • Let your parents know where you’re staying and who you’re going with. • Keep in contact with your parents throughout the week – so they know you’re safe (they’re less likely to hassle you then too) • Register as a school leaver with the local council (or schoolies organisation) in the area you’re visiting. • Always have your phone on you (and charged!) • Put your ‘in case of emergency number’ (ICE) in your phone. • In an emergency call 000. • Keep money aside for emergencies. • Eat before you drink – preferably carbohydrate-rich food such as rice, bread, pasta, pizza etc. It’ll help slow the rate your body absorbs alcohol. • Be extra cautious with drinks. Avoid drinks with high alcohol content and beware of drink spiking – don’t let your drink out of your sight. • Pace your alcohol intake and hydrate with non-alcoholic drinks like water. • Stay with friends and keep an eye out for one another. • Don’t drink drive or get into a car with anyone who’s been drinking. • Avoid risky situations such as swimming after drinking or getting into arguments and fights.
TOP 10 TIPS FOR PARENTS Here are 10 ways to encourage your kids to talk about drugs with you.
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Be an active part of their lives Make sure you set aside time to spend with your kids. Take an interest in their interests and establish a routine for doing things with them. Spending time as a family is important, like eating together every day. When they go out, don’t be afraid to ask where they’re going or who they’ll be with.
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Listen to your kids Showing that you’re prepared and willing to listen will help your kids feel more comfortable about listening to you. During a conversation try not to interrupt them or react in a way that will stop whatever you’re discussing. Encourage them to feel comfortable about telling you their problems, and ask for their input on family decisions to show that you value their opinions.
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Be a role model When it comes to drugs there’s no such thing as ‘do as I say, not as I do’. If you take drugs yourself you can’t expect your kids to take your advice. It’s important not to underestimate the influence your behaviour has on them, particularly when it comes to alcohol or tobacco, or misuse of medications.
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Be honest with them It’s natural that you won’t necessarily know everything about drugs. So while it’s important to be informed, you shouldn’t pretend to have answers to every question. Be prepared to say ‘I don’t know but I’ll find out for you’. If you’re honest and clear about where you stand, your kids will find it easier to be honest with you.
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Pick your moment Make sure you pick the right time to discuss drugs with your kids, by looking for natural opportunities as they arise. This might be when you’re all watching TV, or when they’re talking about someone at their school or in their friendship group.
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Be calm When it comes to talking about drugs, being calm and rational is important, as well as not overreacting. Make sure not to ridicule or lecture, as this could make future discussions about drugs more difficult and make your kids more resistant to talking about them at all.
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Avoid conflict It is difficult to solve a problem where there’s a conflict. Try to see their point of view while encouraging them to understand yours. If a confrontation does develop, stop the conversation and come back to it when you’re both calmer.
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Keep talking Once you’ve had a discussion about drugs it’s important to have another. Start talking to your kids about drugs early, and be willing to talk to your kids about the issue at any time.
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Set clear boundaries Generally kids expect and appreciate some ground rules. By actively involving them in setting the rules you can encourage them to take more responsibility for sticking to them. Once you’ve decided on these rules, enforce them, and let your kids know the consequences of breaking them. Discuss and agree to ways your kids will act if they find themselves in situations where drugs are present. For example, let them know that you’ll always collect them if they need you to, whatever the hour. However, make it absolutely clear that you would rather they didn’t put themselves in a situation where they are likely to be exposed to drugs in the first place.
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Focus on positives Be sure to reward your kids’ good behaviour and emphasise the things they do well. Encourage them to feel good about themselves and let them know that they deserve respect and should also respect themselves.
For more information visit “drinkwise.org.au www.childsafetyhub.com.au
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Child Safety HANDBOOK
Approximately 150 children die and 68,000 are r a e y y r e v e d e s li a it p s o h l a n io t n e t in n u o t e u d injury in Australia There is no higher priority than protecting our children and NSW Police Legacy continues their commitment to child safety. The greatest tool available to combat youth vulnerability is through knowledge. This handbook is for every family and includes everything we need as a community to protect our most valuable and vulnerable resource – our children.
