With the colder winter weather starting to bite, parents up and down the country are busy wrapping up their little ones against the chilly winds. But being out and about in winter isn’t just about staying warm – you have to stay safe too.
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Here child safety experts Clippasafe share their winter season safety essentials:
1. Winter can be an exciting time for youngsters, with lots of interesting things to toddle off and look at. While this playful curiosity needs to be encouraged, as a parent it helps to have some way of making sure they don’t stray too far! A good set of reins allows tots to explore, but still offers peace of mind for mums and dads.
2. As the cooler temperatures set in, icy lakes and ponds become a big safety hazard. Remember that although many ponds and lakes look frozen solid, it is often impossible to tell how thick the ice actually is. Steer clear of all frozen surfaces, and keep dogs on leads to avoid any unnecessary dangers.
3. We all know that children like to carry their own bits and bobs around – so make sure they have their own backpack to carry the little things they will need for a day in the great outdoors. This backpack even has a handy rein attached to it to stop kids from going off the beaten track. Â
4. Snow and ice can be slippery underfoot, so before you head out make sure your toddler’s shoes have a nice firm grip to avoid any unwanted accidents.
5. Playing in the snow can be fun, but take extra care with outdoor toys like toboggans and sledges. Check there is no danger of colliding with trees or fences – and remind older children to be gentle with little ones.
6. No matter how grown up they may think they are most toddlers still enjoy the comfort of their dummy – so the tantrum that ensues when they lose one is usually on a grand scale! These handy Soother Savers attach to clothing to prevent dummies getting lost while out and about.Â
7. The great British weather is famously unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for all eventualities when you’re out and about with a youngster. Always pack a rain cover for your pram or buggy, as well as a couple of extra blankets and a warm drink in a thermos.
For further safety tips and information on Clippasafe products, visit www.clippasafe.co.uk