Our friends at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital want to keep your children safe this holiday season.  Here are some things you should keep in mind as your family celebrates.

Choking and Swallowing Hazards
-Tree ornaments, light bulbs, icicles, tinsel and small toys are potential choking hazards for small children because they may block the airway. The general rule of thumb is that if it’s small enough to fit in the mouths of babies and toddlers, they shouldn’t play with it.

-Common holiday foods such as peanuts or popcorn are potential choking hazards and should not be given to children under four years of age.

Fire and Burn Safety
-Keep your tree secured in a sturdy stand so that it doesn’t tip over or isn’t knocked over by kids or pets.

-Place it away from all heat sources such as electrical outlets, radiators and portable space heaters. If you buy an artificial tree, be sure that it is labeled “fire-retardant.”

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When it comes to Halloween safety, a little advanced planning can go a long way.

 Costume Safety
-Avoid masks that limit or block eyesight.  Instead consider facepaint or make-up.
-Avoid black costumes and choose bright or reflective colors if possible.  If your child’s costume is black think about using reflective tape on the costume for greater visability.
-Purchase costumes, wigs and accessories that are flame resistant.
-Make sure the costume isn’t too long, so your child doesn’t trip.

Pumpkin Carving Safety
-Small children should never carve pumpkins.  Let little kids draw a face on the pumpkin with a marker and parents can do the cutting.
-Young children can also paint pumpkins instead of carving them.
-Votive candles are the safest for inside a pumpkin.  There are also candle alternatives offered at many stores.
-Make sure pumpkins are placed on a sturdy surface where kids can’t knock them over.

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 Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital has recommended some great tips to make sure your child is ready to start the school year of the right foot.

Backpack Safety
· Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
· Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10-20% the student’s body weight.
· Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
· Consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs, and they may be difficult to roll in snow.

Traveling To and From School
School Bus
· If your child’s school bus has lap or shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times when on the bus.
· Wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.
· Do not move around on the bus.
· Check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing.
· Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.

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The American Red Cross offers a unique day camp for kids interested in becoming a certified babysitter.  The daycamp is offered to teens ages 11-15 years old and is held a two locations in Grand Rapids.  The camp teaches kids how to become responsible and confident babysitters through hands-on activities, videos, role playing and lively discussions.

Participants will learn the following:

• How to safely supervise children of all ages.
• How to perform basic childcare skills like diapering, dressing and feeding.
• How to handle discipline issues.
• How to identify safety hazards and prevent injuries.
• How to care for common injuries and emergencies like choking, burns, cuts and insect stings.
• How to effectively communicate with children and their parents.

For more information on the camp or to get registered, contact the American Red Cross of Greater Grand Rapids at 616-456-8661 and ask for extension 3604 or 3407.

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Everyone loves swimming in the summer.  Whether it’s a local pool, water park or one of West Michigan’s awesome lakes, make sure to be safe.

• When in the sun, make sure you always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15. 
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Pay attention to signs of heatstroke, like excessive sweating, racing heart rate, dizziness and fatigue.
• When near the water make sure that all children know how to swim.  If not, children should wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket at all times.
• Make sure that all children in the water have proper supervision.  There should always be one designated adult watching who isn’t reading a book, tanning or talking with friends.

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When teens are ready to purchase their first car, it can be easy to get caught up in image vs. safety.  Often times teens want something fast, powerful and shiny, but the number one feature to look for is safety.  Here are some things to remember when shopping for that first car.

• Consider purchasing a late-model car.  While an older car may seem bigger and safer, a newer sedan is going to have better and up-to-date safety features.
• Don’t think too small or too big.  While small cars are cute and save on gas, they can also be harder to see on the road and offer less crash protection.  While large SUVs or trucks may be attractive, they are often less stable and more likely to roll over due to a high center of gravity. 
• Sports cars may be fast, but they can raise your insurance premiums.
• Check the reliability and cost of ownership on any vehicle you’re considering.
• Make sure to look into crash test data.
• If you are buying a used car, check out the car’s history and also schedule an inspection on the car to make sure everything is in good condition.
• Look for a vehicle with a warranty or purchase an extended warranty if possible.

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