According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 12,000 children die from injuries each year. The most common causes of death among children in the U.S. result from injuries related to motor vehicle crashes, burns, falls, poisoning and drowning.

USE THESE TIPS TO HELP KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY OUT OF HARM’S WAY.

• Supervise all children’s activities, especially those around water, such as bathing or swimming.
• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers need to be kept in working order.
• Develop a fire escape route. Practice using your plan and make sure each family member knows what to do in case of emergency.
• Set your water heater thermostat at or below 120 F to prevent burns.
• Wear appropriate safety equipment at home, work and play.
• Insist all passengers wear seat belts and that children are properly restrained in car seats.
• Keep a list of emergency numbers stored in your phone. This list should include the police, fire department, poison control center, local emergency service (if different than 911), hospital and your healthcare providers.
• Store medicines and potential poisons in a safe place and away from children.
• Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit at home, work and in the car.

sources: cdc.gov, hopkinsmedicine.org