Unintentional falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries resulting in emergency room visits for all ages. They can occur from playground equipment, furniture, windows, stairs, ladders, and other sources. We can all set a good example for children by holding hand railings on stairs and escalators. Stress to young […]

With April just around the corner, safety educators believe anyone can be an April Fool at any giving time. You are an April Fool if: Motor vehicle accidents are still the number-one cause of accidental deaths in Canada. But many people still do not heed the wise advice police officers […]

Spring has arrived and it is time to spring into action. Start thinking about doing a clean-up and inspection of your home and yard. It also is time to look for any fire hazards. The Office of the Fire Marshal and Ministry of Natural Resources has an excellent pamphlet on […]

Each year in Canada, people are injured and others are killed by accidents that could have been prevented. In fact, 90 percent of all accidents are predictable and, with proper education, largely preventable. Falling into an open manhole or sewer, being crushed by some heavy item, or injured because you […]

In Sainte-Foy, Que., a 20-month-old choked to death a week after an un-popped popcorn kernel got stuck in her throat. The kernel absorbed saliva and expanded to nine mm within seven days, growing large enough to completely block the trachea. Each year, young children in Canada are at some risk […]

A babysitter, or an older brother or sister, is often responsible for the care and safety of young children. Knowing what to do in the event of a poisoning, and following proper poisoning prevention behaviours, are an important part of that responsibility. Caregivers should know children who are poisoned by […]

Jan. 1 has passed–did you ever make any New Year’s resolutions? Well, how about practising safety for starters! And I bet if you look hard enough, you will find hazards inside and outside your home. Most home hazards can be prevented by inspection and correction. Members of every household should […]

The Canadian Red Cross has been helping Canadians lead safer, healthier lives for close to 100 years. Many of their programs and services are considered to be among the best in the world. They have been working together with partners like Fire Prevention Canada to create healthier, safe communities. They […]

Nearly all childhood unintentional shooting deaths occur in or around the home. And most of those involve firearms that have been loaded and accessible to children. The big problem in Canada and the United States is that many children between the ages of five and 14 have died from unintentional […]

Hallowe’en is nearing and most children are thinking of pumpkins, costumes, and treats. Hallowe’en is a fun time and, as a parent, I look forward to it. But we all must understand something–Hallowe’en poses the danger of ignition of children’s costumes. While this is a rare event, the risk is […]

Each year, fire kills more than 4,500 people and injures tens of thousands of others in the United States. In Canada, more than 450 people die every year and more than 3,500 people are injured. As a firefighter, I am concerned by the tragic fires that continue to claim the […]