Falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in children and teens age 18 and younger. Injuries from falls include cuts, bruises, broken bones, and concussions. Many of these can be prevented.
For children, rough play is a common cause of falls and injuries. Children should be reminded not to push and shove each other while playing.
What actions can I take to prevent my child from falling at home?

-
Supervise children at all times.
-
Always strap small children securely into the harnesses of high chairs and child carriers. When a baby is in a child carrier, do not leave the carrier on any high surface. Always rest it on the ground.
-
Do not use baby walkers. Consider alternatives like a bouncer or play yard.
-
Teach children not to climb on furniture. Secure televisions, bookshelves, and other high furniture to the wall with safety brackets and mounts.
-
Keep furniture away from windows so that children cannot climb up on it to reach the windows.
-
Install locks on all windows. You can also install window guards that prevent windows from opening more than 4 inches (10.2 cm). If you have windows that can open from both the top and bottom, only open the top window.
-
Do not let children play on high decks, porches, or balconies.
-
Install safety gates at the top and bottom of all staircases. Use gates that attach directly to the wall, not pressure-mounted gates.
-
Make sure that your stairs have handrails.
-
Keep stairs well lit. Do not leave any items on the stairs.
-
Use non-skid mats in the bathroom and bathtub. Attach bath mats securely with double-sided, non-slip rug tape.
Where to find more information
-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov
-
Safe Kids Worldwide: safekids.org
Contact a health care provider if:
-
Your child has a fall that causes pain, swelling, bleeding, or bruising.
Get help right away if:
-
Your child loses consciousness or has trouble moving after a fall. Do not move your child.
-
Your child has a fall that causes a head injury.
These symptoms may be an emergency. Do not wait to see if the symptoms will go away. Get help right away. Call 911.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.