PARENTS are being urged to think one step ahead of their children over the festive period to avoid accidents and have a ‘Safer Home’ this Christmas.

In Somerset the leading cause for the under fives having avoidable injuries is falls in their own home.

Somerset County Council and Somerset and Devon Fire and Rescue Service are working together to continue to make homes in the county safer for families. Somerset families who receive a safer homes referral can receive free home safety and fire safety equipment.

Accidents are a leading cause of death, serious injury and acquired disability for children and young people in the UK. They often happen when people are distracted and serious accidents can happen very quickly, for example when checking social media or taking selfies. These incidents are largely preventable.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing at Somerset County Council said: “During the festive period the risk of accidents for children in the home escalates. If you want to find out more about seeing if you are eligible for a safer home referral then I would encourage you to speak to your Health Visitor in the first instance.

“Children’s capacity for getting into danger increases all the time as they grow. Parents need to stay one step ahead and anticipate their children’s next moves to help keep them safe. There is a lot we can do in the home in the run up and through Christmas to keep everyone safe..”