From the time they leave the womb, children are subject to a dangerous world and it's our job to keep them safe. We can't be with them every second, but if we can educate them on keeping themselves safe, they stand a better chance.

Below are a few places to start, but many more can be found on this site which is very comprehensive in child safety.

Home safety

Have a fire safety plan

Dedicate time to making a plan for escape and teach them how to use a fire extinguisher. Teach stop, drop and roll and have a designated spot to meet in an evacuation. Educate them on the dangers of smoke inhalation.

Poisons

Keep all poison or hazardous materials locked up. Know the Poison Control number (800-222-1222). Learn the basics of what to do if different poisons are ingested.

Electrical safety

Teach children how to respect electricity and the dangers of outlets and appliances. Keep safety plugs in all outlets. Teach older children where circuit box is and how to throw the switches.

Drowning safety

Never leave children unattended in bathtubs, pools, or where there is standing water (even your washing machine or a mop bucket). Watch this very important video on resources to prevent infant and toddler drowning. It is amazing.

Burns

Make sure water is the right temperature before putting children in the bath. Use the back burners on the stove and keep pot handles turned in. Teach them that ovens and fireplaces are hot. Also steam. Teach older kids to cook and respect fire. Instruct them on how to treat burns. Know the different degrees of burns and when to seek medical attention.

Choking

Know the Heimlich maneuver, especially the one for infants. Keep small objects out of reach. Check for loose buttons. Keep cords out of the way.

Calling for help

All children old enough should be trained in how to call 911 and answering the questions they may be asked. As soon as they are old enough, they need to memorize their address and phone number.

Sports safety

Proper equipment

Whether riding bicycles or playing football, children should be equipped with proper-fitting equipment for protection - especially head gear.

Staying down if hurt

Children have a natural inclination to not want to let the team down and may attempt to get back in the game with a serious injury. Teach them to stay down until they are examined.

Concussions

Know the signs of a concussion. This site gives great details to educate yourself and your children on the signs that they may have a head injury.

Stranger danger

Computer safety

Keep computers in common areas. Check history regularly. Listen to your instincts. Share passwords. Teach children about predators when they are old enough to understand.

Stranger danger

Have a code word that they don't share with anyone that can be used in case of emergency. Teach them to always report. Instruct them on their private zones. Make certain they know their phone number and address. This video is a bit dated, but it contains good information on how to teach your kids about stranger traps.

Always report

Teach your kids that they should always report to you or to an authority if someone approaches them, regardless of any threats a person might make.

Know your kids' friends

Know the names of your kids' friends, their addresses and phone numbers. Keep a list handy.

Records of your children

Keep fingerprints and current photos of your children handy.

Automobile safety

Stay up to date on carseat regulations

Keep your kids in the proper carseat for their size and age. Make sure all straps are adjusted and all anchoring straps are tight.

Always use safety belts

When they are old enough to leave the carseats and boosters, make certain they develop the habit of always wearing a seatbelt no matter how short the distance.

Around cars

Teach them how to walk around cars and that they can't always be seen in rear view mirrors.

No loose objects in car

Even the softest object can become a projectile in a car upon impact. Keep all objects secure. This article shows what can happen.

Children are going to get bumped and bruised and that's part of their growing up process. But there are certain dangers that we must educate ourselves on in their behalf. Ignorance is not bliss where little ones are concerned. Safety is vital and knowledge is power.