Children under the age of three and children just learning to walk are at particular risk. They are most apt to reach out for tablecloths and pot handles, possibly pulling a hot liquid onto themselves, causing severe burns. They are also at an inquiring age, opening cabinets and putting things in their mouths. Parents must make certain there are no dangers behind those cabinet doors.

Microwave ovens are considered safer and easier for children to use than conventional ovens and stoves. However, food and containers can still be hot enough to burn if not handled with pot holders, and the steam rising when the lid or plastic wrap is removed can be hotter than the food. Special care should be taken when warming a baby's bottle in the microwave. Since microwaves heat unevenly, the first drops out of the bottle may be an acceptable temperature while a scalding hot spot hides elsewhere in the bottle.

Secure razor blades, medicines and other bathroom dangers above a child's reach. A closed, elevated container, such as a medicine cabinet, is preferable.

Hot water can burn more quickly than many people realize. The water heater should never be set above 130 degrees. At that temperature, a serious burn can occur in 30 seconds. At 140 degrees, it takes 5 seconds. At 145 degrees, only 3 seconds. A small child playing with the water in the bathtub cannot distinguish between the knob for the hot water and the one for the cold. If the hot water is too hot, it can scald a child before the water can be stopped. In a deep bathtub, a child can be trapped.
medical emergency. Ask how many children are assigned to each instructor. Have they practiced exiting the building? Are there regular fire drills? Check with the local fire department to see if the facility meets local fire codes and if they have inspected the facility. Walk through the facility and look for the storage area. Could your child gain access to these dangerous areas?

By being aware of the danger in our homes, we can minimize the threat to our children and ourselves. Teach your children their home addresses and how to use 911. IT MAY SAVE A LIFE!

CHILDREN SHOULD TRY TO STAY IN GROUPS ...
There is strength in numbers. In each of the recent cases the children have been alone.

TAKE TIME TO KNOW YOUR SURROUNDINGS ...
Be aware that the most dangerous times can be just before and after school.

STRANGERS DON'T ALWAYS LOOK EVIL ...
A child should never talk to people they don't know.

WALK AWAY FROM STREETS ...
Children should stay on sidewalks or at least six feet from the street.

STAY AWAY FROM CARS ...
Children should never approach a car or truck no matter what the occupants say.

YELL AND TELL ...
If someone grabs a child, the child should scream and yell out "HELP ME -- CALL THE POLICE."

RECOGNIZE, REACT, AND REPORT
When children think they see danger, they should run and tell an adult immediately.