Every November, National Child Safety and Protection Month serves as a powerful reminder that keeping kids safe is about more than avoiding illness. It is about preventing accidents and injuries before they happen.

Parents juggle a thousand tasks every day, but a few simple precautions can make a world of difference in keeping little ones safe at home, in the car and out in the world. View the list of practical tips below to help your child stay safe:

Kids are naturally curious, and brightly colored pills can look like candy.  Be sure to:

• Always store medications in locked cabinets or containers.
• Never leave pills on countertops, purses or nightstands.
• Teach older kids that medicine is never “candy” and should only be taken from a trusted adult.

If firearms are in the home, safety measures must be non-negotiable. You should:

• Store all firearms unloaded in a locked cabinet, safe or vault.
• Lock and store ammunition separately.
• Teach children to never touch a gun and to notify an adult immediately if they see one.

Teaching children about fire safety early can make a life-saving difference. Kids need simple, clear steps they can remember in an emergency, and practicing together builds confidence and calmness if a fire ever occurs. Consider the following:

• Keep matches, lighters and candles out of children’s reach and explain they are not toys.
• Create and practice a family escape plan with two exits from every room and a safe meeting spot.
• Teach kids “Stop, Drop, and Roll” to extinguish flames on clothing and help them recognize the sound of a smoke alarm.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher for your home and test your smoke alarms every month, replacing batteries as needed.

Whether it's school drop-off or a quick grocery run, safety in and around cars is critical. When driving, remember to:

• Always use the appropriate seat for your child based on age, height and weight.
• Never leave children unattended in a car, even for a few minutes.
• Double-check blind spots when backing out of a parking spot — small children can be difficult to see.
• Take off puffy jackets and coats to ensure straps fit snugly when restraining your child during colder months.
• Contact your car seat manufacturer to discuss replacement guidelines after any crash, even if it’s only a minor accident.

For more information about car seat safety, check out this blog by Emily Denney, MD, from Tanner Healthcare for Children.

Bodies of water are extremely dangerous and remain the leading cause of accidental death in young children. Follow these tips to ensure your children’s safety:

• Never leave kids unattended in or near bathtubs or large bodies of water.
• Teach children basic water safety and swimming skills as early as possible.
• Prepare for next summer — install fences and alarms for your backyard pool.
• Always keep children in your line of sight and within arm’s reach to ensure you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Childproof your home

The home should be a safe place to explore as children grow.  A few preventive steps go a long way, including:

• Using safety gates, cabinet locks and electrical outlet covers
• Keeping cleaning products and sharp objects out of reach
• Putting away small items that can become choking hazards
• Installing furniture anchors to prevent tipping
• Checking outdoor play equipment for wear and tear
• Ensuring that windows, gates and fences latch securely
• Clearing the yard of tools and garden chemicals

Please take a moment to save the poison control number (1-800-222-1222) in your cell phone and print a copy to place in the kitchen or another high-traffic area in your home. This will ensure that the number is easily accessible if your child ever swallows or comes into contact with a toxic substance.

This month, in recognition of Child Safety and Protection Month, take time to walk through your home with your children in mind and look for ways to create a safer environment. Involve your children in the process by teaching them how they can play an active role in their own safety. Encourage them to recognize hazards, like leaving toys in walkways or running near appliances, and practice safety drills together, such as where to go in an emergency or how to call for help.

By combining practical safety steps with open conversations, you not only reduce risks at home but also help children develop habits and awareness that will protect them throughout their lives.

At Tanner Urgent Care for Kids, we want to be a trusted resource in your child’s health and safety. Call us at 770-812-8825 to discuss additional safety tips or to seek treatment for any injuries that may occur. You may also visit https://www.tanner.org/tanner-urgent-care-for-kids to view wait times or schedule ahead. Our talented providers are here for YOU!