Decrease in children's accidents

Accidents amongst children under 15 in Guernsey are on the decline.

An analysis of attendances at the Accident and Emergency department at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital has shown a drop of 9% from 1997 to 2002.

Guernsey's Board of Health says it is encouraged by these figures and is keen to promote safety awareness in the home to reduce injuries to children.

However, more accidents happen to children in houses than on the beaches.

Visiting relatives

Health Promotion manager Yvonne Le Page said of children hurting themselves: "There are some things where you want them to take a risk and have a good time.

"But, obviously, we don't them to get involved in activities that are too risky."

Yvonne Le Page also pointed out that it was not always when children are at their home that they have accidents indoors.

She said: "Carers and grandparents who haven't had children in the house for a while might want to think about just how to make it a safer place."