Families For Life | Preventing Strangulation and Suffocation-Toddlers
As toddlers and young children become more active and independent, they may climb, explore and play in ways that can create unexpected safety risks. Many everyday household items can pose strangulation or suffocation hazards. Simple safety measures can help keep your child safe.
Watch Out for Cords and Strings
Children can become entangled in cords, ropes and strings during play.
To reduce risks:
Keep blind and curtain cords well out of reach.
Secure loose cords using safety devices available at hardware stores.
Avoid clothing with long drawstrings or cords.
Remove scarves, necklaces and jewellery before play.
Ensure your child removes their helmet after cycling, scooting or skating, as it can get caught on playground equipment.
Keep Plastic Bags and Packaging Away
Plastic bags, plastic wrap and packaging materials can cover a child's nose and mouth, making it difficult to breathe.
Store plastic bags out of reach and dispose of them promptly.
Tie bags before throwing them away.
Keep packaging materials, including dry-cleaning bags, away from children.
Supervise children when playing with balloons and discard broken balloon pieces immediately.
Choose Safe Beds and Sleeping Areas
Although suffocation risks are highest for babies, young children still need a safe sleep environment.
Keep beds free from large soft toys, bulky cushions and excess bedding.
Ensure bunk beds and bed rails are suitable for your child's age.
Remove any hanging cords, strings or decorations near sleeping areas.
Check Furniture and Storage Spaces
Children often enjoy climbing and hiding.
Secure bookshelves, cabinets and other heavy furniture to walls.
Keep lids of storage boxes closed when not in use.
Avoid allowing children to play inside large containers, toy chests or storage boxes.
Ensure children cannot access unused refrigerators, freezers or other enclosed spaces.
Keep storage areas tidy and free from hazards.
Stay Safe in Prams, Strollers and Car Seats
For younger toddlers:
Always use the harness provided in strollers and car seats.
Check that straps fit properly and are not twisted.
Supervise children in strollers and prams.
Use car seats only for travel, not as a regular sleeping space.
Supervise Outdoor Play
Regular supervision remains the best way to prevent accidents.
Watch children closely on playgrounds and around climbing equipment.
Be cautious around rope swings and other equipment with hanging cords.
Keep an eye on children playing near sand, storage areas or construction materials.
A Quick Safety Check
Take a look around your home from your child's perspective. Remove or secure anything that could wrap around the neck, block breathing, or trap a child in an enclosed space. Small changes can make a big difference in keeping curious toddlers and young children safe as they explore and learn.
Active supervision, safe furniture, secure cords and clutter-free play spaces are some of the best ways to reduce strangulation and suffocation risks at home.