Staying Safe in Winter

More about staying safe in winter

Winter safety for children is about keeping your child safe as the weather gets colder and days get shorter. Winter brings risks like slippery surfaces, icy roads, and poor visibility in darker mornings and evenings.

You may feel worried about your child slipping, getting hurt near roads, or becoming unwell in cold weather. These concerns are common, especially as routines change and children become more independent.

Risks increase due to ice, low light, and busy after-school times. You should seek help if your child is injured, unwell, or if something does not feel right. Trust your instincts—support is available to help you keep your child safe.

When crossing the road children learn by copying you, so show safe behaviour when crossing the road. Stop, look both ways, and make it clear you are checking it is safe. Children cannot judge traffic speed or safe gaps like adults can, so they should not cross roads alone, even if they seem quiet.
As children get older, remind them to stay alert. Ask them to put their phone away and remove headphones when crossing so they can see and hear traffic clearly.

Driveways, roads, bikes, and winter play can all bring risks for children, especially when visibility is poor. Young children may not understand danger and can move quickly or unexpectedly, so always check around your vehicle and supervise them closely. Show safe habits, as children copy what you do.

Teach older children to stay alert near roads. Ask them to put phones away, remove headphones, and make sure they can see and hear traffic clearly. Keep bikes safe by using helmets and lights when it is dark. At home, store harmful liquids like antifreeze out of reach.

Take care during winter activities. Choose safe places for sledging, avoid frozen water, and keep children warm without overheating, especially babies.