Be alert to home death traps
An increasing number of children are falling victim to entrapment in household appliances
PARENTS need to seriously consider and identify child death traps that may lurk at their homes.
This was again highlighted by the recent tragic incident in Kakamas in the Northern Cape in which five children suffocated to death after being trapped in an old discarded freezer.
Young children find old fridges, freezers or chests perfect hiding spots when, for example, playing hide-and-seek, without realising the dangers of being locked inside.
All old appliances, big enough for a child to fit into, should either be locked securely, or the latches and locks removed.
If unused, preferably remove such appliances from the premises.
But fridges and freezers are not the only death traps.
Ovens, washing machines and tumble dryers pose similar hazards and insulation mutes cries for help.
Another common occurrence is children becoming trapped in a car or car boot and succumbing to heat exhaustion or suffocation
Ensure vehicles are locked at all times and the keys placed where they cannot be reached by children
Birdbaths, ponds and water features are quick to draw the attention of inquisitive young minds and can lead to drowning if toddlers are not supervised.
