Happy, Healthy Holidays
SDSU Expert Offers Child-Safety Tips

CONTACT: Timothy McKernan, (619) 594-5204, mckernan@mail.sdsu.edu

December 13, 1999-The holiday season can be hazardous for children, but a few simple precautions can help ensure an safe and happy celebration. Dr. Sylvia Micik, medical director of the California Center for Childhood Injury Prevention at San Diego State University, said more than 800 children in California are fatally injured each year, many during the holiday months. Taking some simple precautions, she said, can prevent most injuries.

All that pre-holiday rushing around may pose the biggest threat. "Children should ride in a child safety seat until they are four years old and at least 40 pounds," Micik said, adding children should always ride in the backseat. "Never hold a child on your lap or share a seatbelt. Also, pay special attention to children when walking through a parking lot or crossing streets, because drivers are easily distracted around the holidays, and may not be paying attention."

Bicycles are traditional gift favorites for kids, but Dr. Micik advises another package under the tree for those who receive bikes. "Don't forget the helmet," she said. "All children under the age of 18 are required to wear one. Plus, helmets are a good idea if you are giving your children roller blades or skateboards."

Conscientious parents take care to buy age-specific toys to reduce the chance of kids choking on small objects, but shouldn't stop there. "Ornaments, lights and tinsel should be kept away from young children," Micik said. She also offered a simple guideline for selecting toys for very young children. "If it can fit through a toilet paper tube, it's not safe for children under three years old."

For more holiday safety tips, or to arrange an interview with Dr. Micik, call (619) 594-5204.
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