- Proactive steps like installing baby mirrors and teaching kids about vehicle safety can help.
- Supervision while playing outside, proper storage of keys/remotes, and avoiding distractions while driving are other necessary measures.
- Building a detached garage is an effective way to limit access to vehicles.
- Educating kids on pedestrian safety, avoiding playing around vehicles, and safety measures when getting in/out of a car is crucial.
As a parent, you always want to prioritize your child’s safety. But did you know that vehicles are among the leading causes of death among children worldwide? According to UNICEF, nearly 220,000 children and teens aged 0–19 years old die every year due to road traffic injuries. As a homeowner, you need to take the necessary precautions to ensure your child stays safe around vehicles. Here are tips for keeping your kids safe from your vehicles.
Install a Baby Mirror
If you have a baby or a toddler, consider installing a baby mirror in your car. This will enable you to see your child without having to turn your head. You can also use it to see what your child is doing to prevent possible hazards while driving. Furthermore, you can use it to monitor your child while you are parked.
Always Supervise Your Child
Keeping an eye on your child is the best way to minimize the chances of accidents occurring around vehicles. Always supervise your child when they are playing outdoors, especially if there are cars, trucks, or other vehicles around. Ensure that your children understand the dangers of playing near traffic and stay away from driveways and roads.
Store Keys and Remotes Properly
Ensure that you store your car keys and remotes in a safe and secure location. Keep them away from your child, especially if your child is new to walking or has a tendency to put things in their mouth. Consider investing in a lockable storage compartment to keep your keys and remotes out of reach.
Build a Detached Garage For Your Vehicles
If you have a driveway, consider building a detached garage for your vehicles. This will prevent your kids from accessing your cars and other vehicles without supervision. It’s also an effective way to keep the car safe from theft and vandalism when you’re away from home.
Furthermore, it provides extra security as intruders will have to gain access to your house before they can get to the garage. You can purchase detached garage plans online. Make sure you choose a plan that is both functional and aesthetically appealing.
Avoid Distracted Driving
As a parent, you need to ensure that you are driving safely and responsibly. Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating while driving. These distractions could compromise your driving abilities and increase the risk of accidents. Furthermore, always lock your vehicle when you park it – even if you’re running into a store for just a quick minute.
Teach Your Kids About Vehicle Safety
One of the most effective ways to keep your kids safe from vehicles is by teaching them about vehicle safety. Here are the most essential topics you need to discuss with your kids regarding vehicle safety:
The dangers of running behind or in front of vehicles
Make sure your kids understand the risks of running near or behind cars or trucks. This includes avoiding playing in the area and never running behind or in front of a vehicle as it is backing up.
The importance of pedestrian safety
Teach your kids to follow pedestrian safety rules, such as always using the sidewalk when walking and crossing only at designated crosswalks. Make sure they understand that they should always look both ways before crossing any street.
The dangers of playing in or around vehicles
Explain to your kids that playing in or around cars can be very dangerous, and remind them not to go near any parked vehicles without supervision.
The safety rules when getting in or out of a car
Make sure your child knows the safety measures when getting in and out of a car, such as closing doors behind them and never leaving the vehicle unattended.
By educating your kids about vehicle safety, you can ensure that they remain safe when around cars and trucks.
Keeping your kids safe from vehicles requires a combination of proactive steps. You must install baby mirrors, supervise them at all times when they are playing outdoors, store keys and remotes appropriately, build a detached garage for your vehicles, avoid distracted driving, and educate them about vehicle safety. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your children remain protected from the dangers of cars and trucks. Remember – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
