Children's Safety Classes-Garden & Pool

Drowning A major cause of child hospitalisation and death is drowning. It does not take a large amount of water to cause a drowning. A few inches of water is quite sufficient. Swimming pools and spas, wader pools, trapped water following rain and garden ponds are all dangerous areas for young children. It takes only a few seconds to drown; a few minutes to die. To prevent your child drowning:
	Swimming Pools and Spas - constant supervision is required. The supervisor cannot be diverted, even for a few seconds. Pools and spas should be fenced with a childproof gate.
	Garden -The child must be supervised constantly in wader pools. The water must be emptied out following use. Containers containing water after rain must be emptied. Garden ponds must have a rigid mesh covering.
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Many items in the garden are extremely dangerous if taken orally and particular care must be taken to restrict children's access to them. Garden sheds should be locked and dangerous substances stored out of reach of children. Some dangerous items in the garden are:
	Pesticides - Most pesticides are toxic. Young children put everything into their mouth, including dirt. Pesticide use must be restricted and only used strictly according to directions. Snail bait is attractive to children as well as pets. It is a pretty green colour and attractive to young eyes.
	Plants - Plants such as Oleander and Foxglove are toxic if eaten. Different regions will have many more toxic plants. Parents should check with local authorities or plant nurseries for information about toxic plants in their area. Clean up plant cuttings and areas which may contain pesticides.
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Gardening and workshop tools and implements often have sharp points and edges which are dangerous to children.

	Tools and implements should be locked away when not in use.
	Mowers and "whipper snippers" are very dangerous. They should be kept in good condition, replacing mower blades regularly. When mowing the lawn, all people should be well away from the working area to avoid flying debris.
	Electrical cords and extension cords must be in good condition.
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