Staying safe in summer
As the weather warms up, our thoughts often turn to planning for holidays and fun festive celebrations, but it’s important to remember that common items used at this time of year can be hazardous.
To have a safe summer and avoid injury, follow our safety tips and keep up to date on the latest product recalls.
Read our safety suggestions for:
- trampolines
- swimming aids and pools
- low-hanging blind and curtain cords
- furniture stability
- button batteries
- ladders
Trampolines
Only buy a trampoline that complies with the Australian Standard (AS 4989).
Check the trampoline for any wear and tear, and ensure the safety pads are secure and the legs are locked into place.
Place the trampoline on soft ground or impact-absorbing material—not concrete.
Keep the area around and above the trampoline free from hazards.
Always supervise your children.
Read more about safe use of trampolines.
Swimming aids and pools
Make sure the toys or swimming aids are suitable for your child’s age and weight.
Swimming aids and pool toys should be used in a safe manner. Do not use pool toys as safety devices.
Make sure the inflatable toy or swimming aid has non-return valves with attached stoppers and there no leaks or damaged valves.
Swimming aids and pool toys should always be removed from the pool area when they are not in use and stored securely out of the weather.
Children should always be actively supervised by a responsible adult when in the pool area.
Read more about swimming aids and pool toys safety.
Low-hanging blind and curtain cords
Make sure children can’t reach any blind or curtain cords, especially if they stand on the furniture.
Don’t let cords dangle into or near children’s equipment.
Make sure the bottom of any blind or curtain cord is at least 160cm above the floor. Wrap blind cords securely around a hook attached high on the wall.
For older blinds, install a cord tensioning device, such as cord holders and wind-ups, to hold the cord tight against a wall.
Read more about low-hanging blind and curtain cord safety.
Furniture stability
Choose furniture with a broad, solid base and wide legs to keep them well balanced.
Test the furniture before you buy. Apply a little pressure to make sure it’s stable.
If you have any doubts about whether your furniture is stable, secure it using furniture straps, angle braces, or anchors screwed into wall studs.
Choose tables that won’t tip over if a child climbs on them. Glass tables should be made of toughened glass.
Never place tempting items on top of furniture. This encourages children to climb up and reach for them.
If you’re renting a home, talk to your landlord or agent to get permission to install a furniture strap, angle brace or anchor to the wall.
Read more about furniture stability safety.
Button batteries
Make sure the battery compartments found in common household items are secure.
Only buy products that are secured with a child-resistant locking mechanism, or require 2 independent and simultaneous movements to access.
Store spare button batteries in a cupboard out of children’s reach.
If you believe your child has swallowed a button battery, contact the Poisons Information Centre immediately on 13 11 26. If this is not possible, go straight to the hospital emergency room.
Read more about button battery safety.
Ladders
Only buy a ladder if it meets the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1892).
Always follow the instructions on the packaging or in the manual, as well as any safety warnings on the ladder.
Check for unsafe conditions—never use a ladder in in thunderstorms, rain or wind.
Lean the ladder against a wall at a vertical to horizontal ratio of 4:1. This means that if the ladder is 4m tall, place the foot of the ladder 1m from the wall.
Climb the ladder safely and wear appropriate footwear.
Read more about ladder safety.