Children’s Authority issues safety advisory after toddlers’ deaths

IN the aftermath of the death of two toddlers on Sunday and Monday, the Children’s Authority is again urging parents and guardians to put the safety of their children first.

In a statement, the authority noted the incidents in which children have lost their lives.

On Sunday, Damarie Jeffrey, five, of La Brea, drowned in a pool at Fun Splash Water Park, Debe, at a birthday party for his cousin. He was with his mother and other family members.

On Monday, three-year-old Shazade Simon of Williamsville died six days after she suffered second-degree burns to 25 per cent of her body when she stumbled against a boiling pot of lentil peas her grandfather was cooking for her. Shazade was also with her mother and other adults.

The authority said, activities where children are involved should be carried out under the careful supervision of a trusted adult. “The authority notes that children who lack proper supervision are more exposed to accidents, harm and abuse.”

It offered guidelines for parents and guardians to observe to try to keep their children safe. It suggested keeping hazardous liquids, materials, sharp objects, medication and anything that can potentially cause injury out of a child’s reach.

Also, a watchful eye should be kept on children when at the beach, river and pool.

“Children should only be allowed to venture into or around bodies of water with an adult present," it said, reminding adults always to cover exposed water containers, such as buckets, barrels and tanks. Children have fallen into them and drowned in the past.

Of importance, the authority underscored, is to know who is supervising children at all times.

When it comes to their bodies, children should be taught what are 'ok' and 'not ok' touches, that their body is their own and no one has a right to touch them.

“Monitor your child’s friendships, especially with adults who repeatedly attempt to spend time alone with your child, away from others.

“Teach children that it’s okay to say 'no' to unwanted hugs, kisses, or other affection, even from family members.

“Ask about sleeping arrangements and who frequents the household, when children are spending time away from home. Encourage children to keep personal information private,” the authority advised.

“The public is reminded that 'child protection is everybody’s business.'

"Therefore, we all have a duty to keep children safe and to report any incident or suspicion of abuse to the police at 999 or the authority at 996.”