keep your child safe

Kara Livingston

Keep Your ChildSafe!Super Important Information You Need To Know

A SurvivAl MAnuAl

for the 21St Century

newfundraiser.com

ContentsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Putting Together The Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9The Crib – New Or Used? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Crib Toys .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Bathing Aids .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Buckets And Pails .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Baby Gates .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Expandable Enclosures .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12High Chairs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Playpens .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Rattles, Squeeze Toys And Teethers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Toy Chests .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Walkers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Back Carriers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Carrier Seats .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Hook-on Chairs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Changing Tables .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Pacifiers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Strollers And Carriages .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21General Household Tips .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Safe Nursery Checklist .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Changing Tables .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

What Your Sitter Needs To Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26What Is Expected Of The Sitter .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Where Is The Child? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Create A Sitter’s Surprise Box .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Making Your Sitter’s Surprise Box .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Playing Outdoors .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Pool Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Poison ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32What Your Sitter Should Do If There Is A Poisoning Accident .. . . . . . . . . . 33

Keep Your ChildSafe!Super Important Information You Need To Know

A SurvivAl

MAnuAl

for the 21St

Century

Keep Your Child Safe!

Super Important Information You Need To Know

newfundraiser.com

Summary For The Sitter .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33The Sitter’s Important Phone Numbers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Childproofing Your Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3612 Safety Devices To Protect Your Children .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

The Water Safe Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Water Safety For Babies .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38General Water Safety Tips .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Pool, Spa And Hot Tub Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Bath Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Water Safety In Your Home.... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Water Safety Devices For Use At Home ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

The Auto Safe Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Car Seats .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Differences In Car Seats, Boosters And Seat Belts .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Purchasing A Child Safe Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children (LATCH) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Rear Center-Seat Lap And Shoulder Belts .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Adjustable Upper Belts (Rear)... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Built-In Child Safety Seats .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Manual Air Bag On-Off Switch .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Push-Down, Pull-Up Window Switches .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Anti-Pinch /Auto-Reversal Windows ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Automatic Door Locks .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Additional Safety Features To Consider .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Keeping Kids Safe: Inside And Out .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Beyond Safety Technologies And Equipment .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Frequently Asked Questions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Airplane Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Safe Flying With Your Child .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50What Do I Need To Know? ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Your Child And The Screening Process .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Traveling With Your Disabled Child .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Train And Subway Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Safety Rules As Simple As 1-2-3 ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54General Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Using Emergency Equipment .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56Medical Emergencies... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Before Medical Help Arrives .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Evacuation Procedures .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Bikes And Trains .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59



newfundraiser.com

Train Safety Tips For Kids .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

School Bus Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61School Bus Stops: A Risky Part Of The Ride .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Safety Steps You Can Take .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Teach Your Child To Get On And Off The School Bus .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Avoiding A Backover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64How To Avoid A Backover .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64All Vehicles Have Blind Spots .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Safety Tips For Parents .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Sidewalk And Driveway Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Play It Safe: Walking Safely .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Kids On The Move: Walking And Biking Safely .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Take Steps To Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Furniture Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68The Tipping Point: Preventing TV, Furniture And Appliance Tip-Over Deaths And Injuries .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Infant Carrier Seat .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Baby Walkers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Plastic Stickers And Baby Walkers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Stairs And Baby Walkers... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Infants In Strollers .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Baby Gates .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Toy Chests .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Tubular Metal Bunk Beds .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Children’s Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Safety Standard For Children’s Sleepwear .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Guidelines For Drawstrings On Children’s Outerwear .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

The Toy Safe Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76BB Guns Can Kill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Toy Safety Shopping Tips .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Read The Label .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

The Outdoor Safe Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Is Your Public Playground A Safe Place To Play? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Strangulation Hazard With Playground Cargo Nets .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Soft Contained Play Equipment Safety Checklist .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Home Playground Safety Checklist .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82Maintenance Plan For Your Home Playground ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Use Toddler/Tot Swings Safely .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

The Bicycle Safe Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Bicycle Helmets And Your Child .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84



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Social Media And Your Tween/Teen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86Social Networking Sites: Safety Tips For Tweens And Teens .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 86Safety Tips For Your Tween /Teen ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Help Kids Socialize Safely Online .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88A Few More Tips To Protect Pre-Teens .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89What To Do If There’s A Problem ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Arming Your Child Against Predators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90A Parent’s Guide To Internet Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90What Are Signs That Your Child May Be At Risk? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91Do You Suspect Your Child Is Communicating With A Sexual Predator Online? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Minimize The Chances Of Exploitation .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93Frequently Asked Questions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Helpful Definitions .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Sex Offender Registery Sites .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

The Working Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Minimum Age Standards For Employment .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Work Experience And Career Exploration Program (WECEP) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Work-Study Program (WSP) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Occupations Banned For All Minors Under Age 18 ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Hours Of Work And Permitted For 14- And 15-Year-Olds... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Teens And Dating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103When Do Teens Start Dating? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Teen Tips For Healthy And Safe Relationships .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Teen Dating Violence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104What Is Dating Violence? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104What Are The Consequences Of Dating Violence? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Why Does Dating Violence Happen? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105How Can We Prevent Dating Violence? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Where Do We Go From Here? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107Talking With Your Teen ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108Teaching Your Teen ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110What If Your Teen Is Experiencing Dating Violence? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111What If Your Teen Is Violent? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

The Driving Teen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112Graduated Driver Licensing .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114Car Surfing And Teens .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Bullying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115What Is Bullying? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116Recognizing The Warning Signs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116How Do I Get Help? .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117



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How To Deal With Being Bullied .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Cyberbullying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119What Kids, Teens And Young Adults Can Do ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120What Parents Can Do ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121What Schools Can Do ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Test Your Bullying Knowledge .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Manufacturer’s Recalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124Consumer Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124Food Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125Medicine/Drug Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125Transportation Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125Environmental Product Safety .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126



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IntroductionThe world is a rapidly changing place. Our children must deal with issues and circumstances that we never imagined as we were growing up. But one thing has not changed. All parents want their children to be safe. Today a child’s safety takes on many different faces. Whether you are setting up your first nursery, taking the first airplane journey with your child or they are starting to venture onto the Internet, we have helpful tips for keeping your growing child safe from harm.

Safety while traveling (planes, trains, school busses and automobiles), at play (toys, bicycles & playground equipment), at work, and driving are included in Keep Your Child Safe! We identify current standards for children’s clothing and furniture. We have also included sections targeted toward tweens and teens which include social media and predators, teen dating and dating violence, as well as bullying and cyberbullying.

As you read along you will find sections that you will want to share directly with your child. We encourage you to use these sections as a helpful resource to open conversation with your child about ways they can keep themselves safe.

– Kara Livingston



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Putting Together The Nursery

The Crib – New Or Used?More infants die every year in accidents involving cribs than with any other nursery product. Thousands of infants are injured seriously enough to require treatment in hospital emergency rooms.

If You Buy A New Full-Size CribCorner posts should not extend more than 1/16 inch (1-1/2 mm) above the •top of the end panel. Corner posts can be catch points for items placed around a child’s neck or clothing worn by the child.

Mattress support hangers should be secured by bolts or closed hooks. All •crib hardware should be securely tightened and checked frequently.

Bumper pads, if used, should encircle the entire crib, tie or snap into place •and have straps or ties at least in each corner, in the middle of each long side and on both the top and the bottom edges. To prevent your baby from becoming entangled in the ties, trim off excess length after tying. Use the bumpers until the baby can pull up to a standing position. Be sure to remove them when the baby is able to pull up to a standing position so that the baby will not use them to try to climb out of the crib.

Remove and destroy all plastic wrapping materials. Never use plastic •bags as mattress covers. The plastic may cling to a baby’s face and cause suffocation.

If You Already Have A CribUse a crib that meets federal safety regulations and industry voluntary •standards (ASTM). In addition, make sure that the mattress fits tightly. Check the labeling on these products to be sure they meet safety requirements.

Check the crib and replace any missing parts, such as screws, bolts or •mattress support hangers before placing your child in it. Make sure all screws or bolts are secure and tightened. Any screw inserted into a wood component that cannot be tightened securely should be replaced with one that does fit. On cribs where the mattress support is suspended by hangers attached to hooks on the end panels, check frequently to be sure they have not become disconnected. Never use a crib with broken or missing parts.

Use a mattress that has a tight fit. If you can place more than two fingers •between the edge of the mattress and crib side, the mattress is too small. An infant can suffocate if their head or body becomes wedged between the mattress and the crib sides.

Avoid older cribs with headboard and footboard designs that may allow •an infant’s head to become caught in the openings between the corner post and the top rail or in other openings in the top edge of the headboard



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structure. These openings may lead to strangulation.

Corner posts should be less than 1/16 inches high (1-1/2 mm) unless •the crib has a canopy. Do not use a crib that has decorative knobs on corner posts. If you already have a crib with such knobs, the knobs should be unscrewed or sawed off even with the headboard or footboard. Sand splinters and round off the sharp corners.

Never use a crib that has loose or missing slats. Be sure that all slats are •securely fastened in place and the space between slats is no more than 2-3/8 inches (60 mm) to avoid head entrapment and/or strangulation.

If you paint or re-finish the crib, use only high quality household lead-•free enamel paint and let it dry thoroughly so there are no residual fumes. Check the label on the paint can to make sure the manufacturer does not recommend against using the paint on items such as cribs.

Safety TipsTo reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and prevent •suffocation, put your baby to sleep on their back in a crib on a firm, flat mattress. Make sure there is no soft bedding underneath your baby.

Temporary beds. Never place your infant to sleep on an adult bed, water •bed or bunk bed. Infants up to 18 months can suffocate in their sleep when their bodies or faces become wedged between the mattress and bed frame or the mattress and wall.

Never put a crib, child bed or furniture near window blinds or drapery. •Children can strangle on window cords or fall through screens. If local fire codes permit window guards, install them. Make sure all drapery or window blind cords are out of a child’s reach. Each year there are numerous reports of strangulation deaths on window blind cords.

To keep cords out of reach of children, use tie-down devices or take the •cord loop and cut it in half to make two separate cords. Consumers can call 1-800-506-4634 or visit www.windowcoverings.org to get free repair kits.

Never use strings to hang any object, such as a mobile or a toy or a diaper •bag, on or near the crib where a child could become caught in it and strangle. If you have toys with cords or elastic for hanging, cut the strings or cords off.

To prevent strangulation, • never tie a pacifier or teether around your child’s neck. Remove bibs and necklaces whenever you put your baby in a crib or playpen.

Always lock the side rail in its raised position whenever you place your •child in the crib. As soon as your child can stand up, adjust the mattress to its lowest position and remove the bumper pads. Also remove any large toys. An active toddler will use anything for climbing out of the crib.

When your child reaches 35 inches (890 mm) in height, they have •outgrown the crib and should sleep in a bed.

Never use plastic bags as mattress covers. The plastic may cause suffocation.•




Check all crib hardware; tighten all nuts, bolts and screws frequently. After •a crib is moved, be sure all mattress support hangers are secure. Check hooks regularly to be sure none are broken or bent. Open hooks may allow the mattress to fall.

Secure bumper pads around the entire crib and snap or tie in place at least •in each corner, in the middle of each long side and on both the top and the bottom edges. Cut off any excess string length.

Crib ToysCrib gyms and other toys that stretch across the crib with strings, cords or ribbons can be a hazard for older or more active babies. Infants can be strangled or became entangled in crib gyms or other toys stretched across their cribs.

Safety TipsMake sure that crib gyms are installed securely at both ends so they cannot •be pulled down into the crib.

Make sure that you remove crib gyms and mobiles from the crib when your •baby is five months old or begins to push up on hands and knees.

Mobiles and any other toys that hang over a crib or playpen should be out •of reach of a child.

Do not use crib toys with catch points that can hook clothing.•

Bathing AidsWater presents a real danger. Never, even for a moment, leave your child alone or under sibling supervision in the bathtub, even when the child is in a bath ring or seat. Bath rings are intended for use as bath aids, but they are not safety devices! Keep children away from buckets, toilets, pools and other containers of water. Young children can drown quickly in small amounts of water. Hot water can scald. To prevent skin burns always check bath water temperature with your wrist or elbow before bathing your baby.

Safety TipsNever, even for a quick moment, rely on bath rings or seats to keep baby •safe in the bath. Never leave a baby alone in a bath ring or seat in the tub.

Never rely on a sibling to supervise a baby in a bath tub. Turning away to get •a towel, answer the doorbell or telephone could result in the baby drowning.

All necessary bathing items (soap, washcloths, towels, etc.) should be •placed by the tub before your baby goes in.

Only fill the tub with enough water to cover the baby’s legs. This amount •of water is sufficient to bathe the baby. However, be aware that babies can drown in a very small amount of water. All it takes is enough water to cover the nose and mouth.




Stroller has wide base to prevent tipping. MSeat belt and crotch strap are securely attached to frame. MSeat belt buckle is easy to use. MBrakes securely lock the wheel(s). MShopping basket is low on the back and located directly over or in front of Mthe wheels.

If used in carriage position, leg hole openings can be closed. M

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What Your Sitter Needs To Know

What Is Expected Of The SitterThere are certain do’s and don’ts for the sitter. In addition to “sitting” with the children, these are a few of the things you should know and remember to create a safe sitter environment.

Before you leave, fill in the names and numbers suggested in the Sitter’s •Important Phone Numbers List.

Show the sitter through the house or apartment and point out where the •items the sitter will need are located, such as the children’s clothing or playthings.

Be sure to identify where the emergency exits are located. In case of fire •instruct the sitter not to stop to try to put it out. Instruct them to get the children out of the house without stopping to phone. Take them to a neighbor. Call the fire department and then call you to let you know where the children and sitter are.

Keep your youngsters safe by preventing accidents. Know where the •potential hazards are, such as electrical outlets, appliances and exposed heating elements. Be sure that all medicine, bleaches and household cleaners are securely locked up.

Stairs can be dangerous for youngsters. Keep a curious toddler from •playing on or around them. Running or horseplay on them can lead to falls, particularly if the youngsters are wearing socks or other “slippery” footwear. Remember, too, that stairs are not meant to be a storage area. Anything placed on the stairs can become an obstacle to fall over.

If there is a gate across the stairway, make sure it is kept latched. Babies •in carriages, walkers or strollers should never be left unattended, especially in an area around stairs or ramps – whether indoors or out. A malfunction of the carriage’s safety brake or a sudden movement by the child could put it right over the edge. If a gate is not provided, place a barrier of some kind in front of the stairway that a child cannot climb over. Accordion-style




gates with large V-shaped or diamond-shaped openings should not be used since they can entrap a child’s head, causing strangulation. A gate with a straight top or small V’s and diamond-shaped openings is safer. Make sure pressure gates are firmly in place and can’t be dislodged by the child.

Caution both the sitter and children about the dangers of glass doors •or windows. A child running or riding on a trike or bike could easily go through the glass. Keep toys, scatter rugs and other articles that could cause someone to slip or trip away from these areas.

Unless specifically needed, do not have the sitter bathe the baby. A clean •facecloth in lukewarm water will suffice in most cases for cleaning the skin. Bathing a baby calls for utmost care and supervision; aside from the risk of hot water scalds, there is always the danger of drowning. While you may want the help, bathing the infant is not recommended.

If the sitter is changing the baby’s diapers, plan on having everything •within immediate reach so they won’t have to step away from the infant even for a second. Even when constantly watched, babies can roll over and fall from changing tables or other high places. Have diapers, pins, etc., next to the changing space so the baby is under constant supervision.

Infants may choke on small items which they put in their mouths. Small •pieces of food, coins, pins and other non-toy items could lodge in the baby’s throat and cause choking or asphyxiation. It could also occur with small toys or parts of toys intended for older children. Make sure these objects are not within reach. In the event of accidental choking, the sitter should apply first aid measures to clear the child’s airway. In addition, they should also call 911.

Your sitter should be aware of hazards before they surface. Loose, baggy •clothing can be dangerous if it gets caught on furniture, cribs, playpens, etc., as children climb, play or scamper about the room. Clothing can also be a problem if it becomes tightly wound around the baby.

To prevent accidental injuries, doors and windows should be locked at all •times. Remember that children can at times just “seem to disappear” from your sitter’s watchful eye.

Tell your sitter to never open the door to strangers. If there is a question •about someone at the door, ask your sitter to call you immediately.

In case of accident or illness, don’t ask your sitter to be doctor or nurse •except for minor cuts and bruises. Have the sitter call you for instructions. If the sitter cannot reach you, they should call their own parents or go to a neighbor for help. The sick or hurt child may require a doctor or emergency care.

Where Is The Child?With several children – particularly toddlers (two- and three-year-olds) your sitter won’t be doing much “sitting.” The sitter will be playing with them and supervising




bathroom when unsupervised.

Keep the toilet lid down to prevent access to the water and consider using •a toilet seat lock to stop children from opening the lid.

Water Safety In Your HomeNever leave a container such as a bucket with even a small amount of liquid unattended. When finished using a container, empty it immediately. Do not leave empty containers outside in the yard or around the house where they may accumulate water and attract young children. Other items that contain liquids that may be hazardous are sinks, coolers, fish tanks and landscape ponds.

Water Safety Devices For Use At HomeThe items below are samples of safety products to consider for your home.

Toilet seat lock•

Bath thermometer•

Cabinet locks•

Safety gates •

Door latch•

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The Auto Safe Child

Car SeatsBirth To Twelve Months

Children under the age of one should always ride on a rear-facing car seat. There are different types of rear-facing car seats: Infant-only seats can only be used rear-facing. Convertible and 3-in-1 car seats typically have higher height and weight limits for the rear-facing position, allowing you to keep your child rear-facing for a longer period of time.

Follow your car seat manufacturer’s instructions and your vehicle owner’s manual on how to install.

One- To Three-Year-Olds

Keep your one- to three-year-old children in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible. It’s the best way to keep them safe. They should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the top height or weight limit allowed by your car seat’s manufacturer. Once outgrown the rear-facing car seat, your child is ready to travel in a forward-facing car seat with a harness.





Four- To Seven-Year-Olds

Keep your four- to seven-year-old children in their forward-facing car seat with a harness until they reach the top height or weight limit allowed by your car seat’s manufacturer. Once they outgrow their forward-facing car seat with a harness, it’s time to travel on a booster seat … but still in the rear seat.


Eight- To Twelve-Year-Olds

Keep your eight- to twelve-year-old children on their booster seat until they are big enough to fit in a seat belt properly. For a seat belt to fit properly the lap belt must lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach. The shoulder belt should lie snug across the shoulder and chest and not cross the neck or face. Remember: your child should still ride in the back seat because they are safer there.


Differences In Car Seats, Boosters And Seat BeltsA rear-facing car seat is the best seat for your young child to use. It has a harness and in a crash, cradles and moves with your child to reduce the stress to the child’s fragile neck and spinal cord.

A forward-facing car seat has a harness and tether that limits your child’s forward movement during a crash.

A booster seat positions the seat belt so that it fits properly over the stronger parts of your child’s body.

A seat belt should lie across the upper thighs and be snug across the shoulder and chest to restrain the child safely in a crash. It should not rest on the stomach area or across the neck.

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Purchasing A Child Safe VehicleSafety is one of the most important considerations when buying a family vehicle. As you shop for your new car, you’ll want to become familiar with available child safety features. The safety features listed here are designed to help reduce the risk of children incurring crash-related injuries and other vehicle-related injuries, such as those posed by certain types of power windows. Keep in mind that some




All carry-on baggage, including children’s bags and items, must go through •the X-ray machine. This includes: diaper bags, blankets and toys.

All child-related equipment that will fit through the X-ray machine must go •through the X-ray machine. This includes: strollers, umbrella-strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats, backpacks and baby slings.

When you arrive at the checkpoint, collapse or fold your child-related •equipment. Secure items that are in the pockets, baskets or attached to the equipment and place it on the X-ray belt for inspection. Plastic bins are provided to deposit such items.

If any of your child-related equipment does not fit through the X-ray •machine, Security Officers will visually and physically inspect it.

Ask a Security Officer for help gathering your bags and child-related •equipment, if you need it.

Walking Through the Metal Detector

If your child can walk without your assistance, you and your child should walk through the metal detector separately. If you are carrying your child through the metal detector and the alarm sounds, an Officer will have to additionally screen both you and your child. If a baby is carried through the metal detector in a carrier or sling, additional screening may be required regardless if there is an alarm or not.

Remove babies and children from their strollers or infant carriers so that •the Security Officers can screen them individually.

You may not pass the child to another person behind you or in front of you •during this process.

Do not pass your child to a Security Officer to hold.•

Security Officers may ask for your help screening your child.•

Important Information on Traveling With Formula, Breast Milk and Juice

TSA has modified the rules associated with carrying breast milk through security checkpoints. Mothers flying with and without their child are permitted to bring breast milk in quantities greater than three ounces as long as it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint.

Breast milk is in the same category as liquid medications.

When carrying formula, breast milk or juice through the checkpoint, the items will be inspected, however, you or your infant or toddler will not be asked to test or taste breast milk, formula or juice. Security Officers may test liquid exemptions (exempt items more than 3 ounces) for explosives. Officers may ask you to open the container during the screening process.

When traveling with your infant or toddler, in the absence of suspicious activity or items, greater than 3 ounces of baby formula, breast milk or juice are permitted through the security checkpoint in reasonable quantities for the duration of your itinerary, if you perform the following:




Separate these items from the liquids, gels and aerosols in your quart-size •and zip-top bag.

Declare you have the items to one of the Security Officers at the security •checkpoint.

Present these items for additional inspection once reaching the X-ray. •These items are subject to additional screening and Officers may ask you to open a container.

You are encouraged to travel with only as much formula, breast milk or juice in your carry-on needed to reach your destination.

You are allowed to bring gel or liquid-filled teethers, canned, jarred or processed baby food in your carry-on baggage and aboard your plane.

Liquids and gels, including baby formula, breast milk or juice may be packed in your luggage and checked with your airline.

After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft.

Traveling With Your Disabled ChildParents or guardians of children with disabilities should:

Inform the Security Officer if your child has any special needs or medical •devices.

Inform the Security Officer if you think your child may become upset •during the screening process as a result of their disability.

Offer suggestions on how to best accomplish the screening to minimize any •confusion or outburst for your child.

Ask the Security Officer for assistance during the process by helping you •put your and your child’s carry-on items on the X-ray belt.

Know that at no time during the screening process will you be separated •from your child.

Know that if a private screening is required, you should escort and remain •with your child during the private screening process.

Tell the Security Officer what are your child’s abilities are. For example: •can the child stand slightly away from equipment to be hand wanded, walk through the metal detector or needs to be carried through the metal detector by the parent/guardian.

Know that at no time should the Security Officer remove your child •from his/her mobility aid (wheelchair or scooter). You are responsible for removing your child from his/her equipment at your discretion to accomplish screening.

Know that if your child is unable to walk or stand, the Security Officer •will conduct a pat-down search of your child while he/she remains in their mobility aid, as well as a visual and physical inspection of their equipment.



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suggests that the most comprehensive graduated drivers licensing (GDL) programs are associated with reductions of 38% and 40% in fatal and injury crashes, respectively, among 16-year-old drivers.

Graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems are designed to delay full licensure while allowing teens to get their initial driving experience under low-risk conditions. When parents know their state’s GDL laws, they can help enforce the laws and, in effect, help keep their teen drivers safe.

Graduated Driver LicensingGraduated driver licensing (GDL) systems address the high risks faced by new drivers by first granting learners permits (supervised practice stage), followed by a provisional license that temporarily restricts unsupervised driving. Two commonly imposed restrictions include limits on nighttime driving and limits on the number of passengers. These restrictions are lifted as new drivers gain experience and when teenage drivers mature (full licensure). Although requirements for advancing through GDL’s three stages – learners permit, provisional licensure and full licensure – vary across jurisdictions, GDL provides a protective environment while new drivers gain experience.

The elevated crash risk for beginning drivers is universal and GDL has consistently proven effective in reducing such risk. Peer-reviewed evaluations of GDL’s effectiveness in New Zealand, Canada and the United States show that crashes involving new drivers have been reduced by 9% to 43%. The reasons for these reductions are not clear; however, it is generally accepted that GDL’s safety benefits result both from reductions in the amount of driving by inexperienced drivers and from improvements in driving skills under low-risk conditions.

GDL can apply to all newly licensed drivers – not just those who are young. Research clearly demonstrates that older new drivers experience higher crash rates than drivers of the same age with several years of experience. For this reason, in Canada and New Zealand, where many new drivers are not young, GDL is required of all beginners, regardless of age. Even countries that have a higher licensing age than those in North America can benefit from the introduction of GDL.

Car Surfing And TeensAccording to an article published in the October 17, 2008, issue of MMWR, since 1990 at least 99 people died or sustained serious injuries as a result of car surfing, an activity that involves riding on the exterior of a moving vehicle. Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention obtained information about car surfing injuries and deaths by reviewing newspaper reports from 1990 through 2008. Their findings answer common questions about this dangerous phenomenon, which appears to be most popular among young people, especially teenage males.

What is car surfing?



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Car surfing is a dangerous thrill–seeking activity that involves a person riding on the exterior of a moving vehicle, such as on the roof or the hood, while someone else is driving.

Who is most at risk for car surfing related injuries?

CDC researchers discovered the following facts about car surfing:

Males are more likely to car surf than females.•

The average age of persons injured as a result of car surfing is 17.6 years •old and a larger than average proportion of injuries occur among teen males ages 15 to 19. However, injuries have been reported among persons ages 10 to 37 – showing that car surfing is not an activity in which only teenagers participate.

Injuries have been reported in 31 states, although a regional pattern was •detected with 39% from the Midwest and 35% from the South.

How fast does a vehicle have to be travelling in order for someone to be injured or killed while car surfing?

Car surfing is dangerous at nearly any speed. The study found that injuries and deaths were reported in cases where vehicles were traveling at different speeds, as slow as 5 mph to as fast as 80 mph. The most dangerous thing that can happen while car surfing is falling from the vehicle, as this can lead to fatal head injury, even at slow speeds. One of the key risks is sudden unanticipated maneuvers, such as swerving or braking that can force a car surfer off of the vehicle.

What can be done to help prevent teens from car surfing?

Parents and other influential adults should be aware of car surfing and its potentially deadly consequences. Adults can talk to teens about the real risk of injury and death that car surfing poses.

CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control supports parents’ efforts to keep teens safe on the road at all times. Overall, car crashes are the leading cause of death involving teenagers in the United States. Parents can play a key role in keeping teens safe by learning about graduated driver licensing laws and ensuring that their teen driver follows the rules of the road. Learn more about teen driver safety and graduated drivers licensing at www.cdc.gov.

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BullyingBullying is when a person or group repeatedly tries to harm someone who is weaker or who they think is weaker. Sometimes it involves direct attacks such as hitting, name calling, teasing or taunting. Sometimes it is indirect, such as spreading rumors or trying to make others reject someone.


Keep Your ChildSafe!

This manual is a quick and easy reference for parents with children of all ages.

Keep Your Child Safe is indispensible. Whether you’re setting up your first nursery, suspect that your child is experiencing bullying, or they’re starting to venture onto the internet, we have helpful tips for keeping your child safe from harm.As you read along, you’ll find sections to share directly with your child. We encourage you to use these sections as a helpful resource to open conversation about ways they can keep themselves safe.

You’ll find a wealth of comfort between these covers:• Social Networking Sites: Safety Tips For Tweens And Teens• Recognize The Warning Signs Of Bullying• Car Surfing And Teens• Test Your Bullying Knowledge• Home Playground Safety Checklist• How To Avoid A Backover• Prevent Dating Violence• School Bus Stops: A Risky Part Of The Ride• Purchasing A Child Safe Vehicle• Differences In Car Seats, Boosters And Seat Belts• Childproof Your Home• Guide To Internet Safety• Create A Sitter’s Surprise Box• 12 Safety Devices To Protect Your Children

A SurvivAl MAnuAl

for the 21St Century

Also Included Are: Healthy Teen Dating Relationships, Toy Safety Shopping Tips, Safe Flying With Your Child, Create A Safe Nursery, How To Handle Medical Emergencies, And Much More!

For more copies of this manual please visit our website:

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