Home can be full of dangerous falls for children of all ages. Each year many children under the age of 14 are seriously injured as a result of a fall in the home. 75% of these children are 4 years of age or younger.

Prevent falls from furniture:

Do not leave babies alone on beds, changing tables or sofas, even for a few seconds. Always strap children into highchairs and strollers. Keep crib rails up at all times and be sure they are latched in place.

Prevent falls from stairs:

• Keep stairs well lighted and clear of clutter.
• Do not let children play on stairs.
• Use safety gates if you have infants or toddlers in your home. At the top of the stairs, attach the gate to a wall. Do not use accordion gates with large openings. A child's neck can become trapped in them.

Prevent falls from porches:

Do not let children play alone on a fire escape, high porch or balcony. Fix loose railings or boards. If you rent, ask the landlord to make these repairs.

Prevent falls from windows:

• Do not rely on screens to prevent falls. Screens are made to keep bugs out, but not strong enough to keep children in. Keep chairs and other furniture away from windows to prevent children from climbing up to them.
• An unguarded window open only five inches poses a danger to children younger than 10 years old. In some cities, landlords are required by law to place window guards in apartments where children live. Guards are not expensive and are available at hardware stores. Do not put guards on windows that open to fire escapes. Install window stops that keep windows from opening up enough to be dangerous to young children.

Do not use mobile child walkers. These make it easier for small children to get into dangerous situations, especially if they are not being supervised closely.