Healthy Habits: Childhood is Risky Business

The years of first steps, birthday bikes, swimming lessons, and after-school soccer are also the years of bumps, bruises, broken bones and worse. Children are at special risk for injury for many reasons. They don’t recognize danger. They are naturally curious. They are less likely to have the skills to escape from dangerous situations. Their bodies are fragile and more likely to be seriously injured. And, they depend on the safety habits of those who care for them.

The Size of the Problem Nationwide

• Unintentional injury-related death is the leading cause of death among children 14 and under
• In 1997, more than 6,000 children died from unintentional injuries and more than 120,000 children were permanently disabled. Almost half of the deaths from unintentional injury occur in children ages 4 and younger.
• Each year more than 14 million children ages 14 or under are treated for unintentional injuries.
• Children living in rural areas are at greater risk of serious injury resulting in death than children living in urban areas. About 150,000 children ages 14 and under suffer farm-related injuries each year.
• Most childhood injuries occur between May and August. The majority of serious injuries resulting in death occur in the evening hours.
• It is estimated that as many as 90 percent of unintentional injuries can be prevented.

Source: National SAFE KIDS Campaign

Useful Info: Injuries Are Not Accidents

• Accidents happen by chance. They can’t be predicted. They can’t be prevented.
• Injuries are not accidents. They can be predicted. They can be prevented.
• Knowing and using good safety habits can prevent most unintentional injuries.

Cause of Death from Unintentional Injury in Children Ages 1-14

Source: National SAFE KIDS Campaign