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Select from the following help and guidance

Falls

Preventing falls

Falls are one of the leading causes of common reason for hospital admission. Most falls result in minor bumps and bruises, but falls from height can cause and fractures.

Babies are particularly vulnerable because they are still developing balance, coordination and awareness. Babies are their heads are proportionally larger and heavier than those of older children.

While not every fall can be prevented, simple changes at home and close. Stairs are one of the most common locations for serious falls, particularly for toddlers and young children. 

Toddler at risk of fall on stairs

 

 

Common fall hazards

Stairs:


Stairs are one of the most common locations for serious falls, particularly for toddlers and young children. 

Risks can also increase when adults are carrying children up or down the stairs.  

To help prevent falls:

Always:

  • Use the handrail
  • Keep one hand free when carrying a child, where possible
  • Install safety gates to restrict access to the top and bottom of the stairs before a baby becomes mobile
  • Keep stairs free from toys, shoes, and other clutter
  • Replace worn carpet or damaged stair coverings
  • Keep stairs and handrails in good repair
  • Make sure banisters are secure and do not provide footholds for climbing
  • Keep the stairs well lit.

 

 

Safety gates:


For children under 24 months old, install wall-mounted safety gates to restrict access to both the top and bottom of the stairs. When buying a safety gate: 

Always:

  • Check it complies with EN1930:2011
  • Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully
  • Regularly check that fittings remain secure.