We want you to have a safe, happy and healthy summer. Everyday summer products can be unsafe if they are incorrectly used or if children are not supervised.
To have a safe summer, follow our top tips:
Portable pools
A popular alternative to in-ground pools are portable pools, but they can be just as dangerous.
Portable pools might be a cheaper option than installing an in-ground pool, but many parents and carers don't realise the significant drowning risks for children in as little as three centimetres of water and the need for fencing if the pool contains more than 30 centimetres of water.
Anyone with a portable pool should always:
- Supervise - within arm’s reach.
- Act - learn CPR and be emergency ready.
- Fence - pools deeper than 30cm.
- Empty - and store safely.
For more information visit the Make it safe website.
Christmas toys
If you're rushing with last minute Christmas shopping, take time to check that gifts for little ones are age appropriate and don’t pose choking hazards. Be sure to read any warning labels and follow all safety instructions.
Check all Christmas toys and products in the home to see if they come with button batteries. Ensure button batteries are screwed in and not easily accessible to children. If swallowed or inserted, button batteries can become stuck and burn through soft tissue in just two hours. If you suspect a child has swallowed a button battery, immediately call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. If a child has difficulty breathing, contact 000 immediately.
Visit our button batteries page for more information.
The holidays are also a great opportunity to check if any of the products in your house have been recalled. Check the Product Safety Australia recalls page for the latest information.
Trampolines
Trampolines may appear to be safe, but hundreds of Australian children are taken to hospital every year for trampoline-related injuries such as cuts, sprains and fractures. Don’t let your trampoline spring a nasty surprise. Trampolines have been designed for only one child to use at a time.
Follow this advice to help keep kids safe on trampolines:
- Only one at a time
- Supervise
- Use safety padding on the springs and frame
- Make sure there are no hazards around the trampoline
- Regularly check the trampoline’s condition to make sure there are no holes or bent frame, springs are intact and securely attached at both ends, and leg braces are securely locked.
Read more about trampoline safety on the Product Safety Australia website.
Aquatic toys
Aquatic toys and flotation devices can also provide parents with a false sense of their child’s swimming ability. They are not safety devices. Children who can't swim may drown if their aquatic toy fails or if they don't use it properly.
When buying or using aquatic toys, check the age and weight restrictions to ensure the products are appropriate for use. Read the warning labels and packaging carefully and follow instructions for proper assembly and use.
Aquatic toys don't replace the need for active adult supervision – always closely supervise around water.
Read more about aquatic toys on the Product Safety Australia website
eRideables
It can be fun to zip around outdoors on a motorised scooter, skateboard or other vehicle, but it’s important to remember these devices are not toys and are dangerous if used incorrectly.
Parents and caregivers should:
- only purchase age-appropriate devices
- make sure kids wear a helmet
- only allow one person per device
- unplug lithium-ion batteries once fully charged to prevent fires, explosions and serious injuries.
Read more about lithium-ion batteries on the Product Safety Australia website.
