Staying Safe in Spring

More about staying safe in spring

Spring safety is about keeping your child safe as they become more active at home and outdoors. Warmer weather and longer days mean more play, which can increase the risk of accidents, especially falls.

Falls often happen around stairs, windows, or furniture that can be climbed or pulled over. Clutter and busy routines can also lead to trips and slips.
It is normal to feel worried about your child’s safety while they explore and grow more independent.
Seek help if your child is hurt, in pain, or not acting as usual. You can also ask for advice if you are unsure how to improve safety at home.

Babies learn new skills quickly, often sooner than you expect. Even very young babies can suddenly wriggle, roll or move, which can lead to falls if they are left unattended. If possible, change your baby’s nappy on the floor using a mat and never leave them alone on raised surfaces like beds, sofas or changing tables. Keep car seats and cradles on the floor, hold the handrail on stairs, watch for trip hazards, and always use a 5-point harness in highchairs or pushchairs.

Over 80% of children aged 12–15 have had potentially harmful experiences online, showing how common online risks can be. For younger children, use simple language and tools like Talk PANTS to help them understand safe and unsafe behaviour. If you are worried about grooming or exploitation, report it to CEOP. As children get older, they may feel embarrassed to talk, but they still need support. Keep checking in regularly and let them know you are there to help. You can also visit the NSPCC website for more advice on keeping children safe online.

Around 160,000 children under 15 are treated in hospital each year for garden injuries, showing how common these accidents are. Keep children away when using lawnmowers, hedge trimmers or doing DIY, and store tools and chemicals safely in their original containers to prevent poisoning. Water is a serious risk for young children, so ponds should be fenced, covered or filled in. Keep pets and children away from gardening or electrical work, and avoid using electrical equipment after drinking alcohol.

For advice on poisonous plants, visit the Woodland Trust to learn about foxgloves and other harmful plants, and the RHS for guidance on creating a child‑friendly garden. Teach children not to play with or eat plants, and always check labels when buying new ones or ask for advice if you are unsure. If someone has eaten part of a plant, go straight to A&E, take a sample with you, and do not try to make them sick.

Trampolines can be fun but cause many injuries. Around 60% happen when more than one child is bouncing, so only allow one at a time and avoid use under six. Garden ponds are dangerous, with around five children drowning each year. Always supervise closely, as drowning is silent and can happen in very small amounts of water.