Stay safe in the garden this summer
Tue, May 15, 2018
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council would like to remind householders about the importance of keeping safe in the garden this summer.
Using the acronym FLOWERS, Council is endorsing a new safety campaign which highlights seven key areas which are among the most common causes of accidents.
Householders are asked to keep the following advice in mind:
Fences
Secure all fences and close garden gates when children are playing outside.
Lighting barbecues
Keep lit barbecues in an open space and never leave children unsupervised near a barbecue. Make sure they are fully extinguished when finished. Take care when disposing of barbecues and coals and check they have cooled down before putting them in the bin.
Out of Reach
Keep chemicals and tools out of reach. Store them on a high shelf in a secure garden shed.
Water
Always make sure that garden ponds are securely covered and children are supervised while playing in a paddling pool. Be aware of items that can fill with rain water such as buckets, plant pots and sand pit lids. As little as three centimetres of water can drown a small child.
Electrical equipment
Lock all equipment such as power tools and lawnmowers in a shed or garage.
Remove poisonous plants and berries
If you have poisonous trees in your garden, fence them off.
Soft surfaces.
Ensure all play equipment is placed on a soft surface such as grass or a mat. If you have a trampoline, ensure that it has a safety net and that it is used by only one child at a time. Remember trampolines should not be used by children under six years of age.
For further information please contact Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Home Safety Team on 028 2766 0257 or go to www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk.