Victoria Police Legacy Child Safety Handbook

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Child Safety HANDBOOK A RESOURCE FOR PARENTS, CARERS AND TEACHERS

Proudly brought to you by Victoria Police Legacy

School safety matters

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FOREWORD

MESSAGE FROM HER EXCELLENCY, THE HONOURABLE LINDA DESSAU AM, GOVERNOR OF VICTORIA Victoria Police Legacy, of which I am honoured to be Patron-in-Chief, continues its invaluable support and service to the community through this, its first ever Child Safety Handbook.

A thorough and informative resource for us all, this handbook reminds us of the attention we should pay to both the obvious and the less obvious safety hazards that face the children around us.

The thoughtfully designed material shows us not only how to prevent risky situations, but also how to act when threats or dangerous situations do present themselves.

To those who have collated the valuable information within this book, and to Victoria Police Legacy, I offer my congratulations and appreciation for the production of a fine resource for everyone involved in the care of children.

The Honourable Linda Dessau AM Governor of Victoria

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13 63 73 bankvic.com.au This advice is general, so it may not be right for you. Before acting on the advice you should consider whether the advice is appropriate for you. Before you make any decision to acquire any product or service you should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement available from our website bankvic.com.au, any branch or by calling us on 13 63 73. Police Financial Services Limited ABN 33 087 651 661 AFSL 240293 – trading as BankVic. 10.15 5653bv

FOREWORD

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER FOR POLICE THE HON. LISA NEVILLE MP Children today live in an environment characterised by opportunity and change. This environment can be an incredibly rewarding one. But it can also present new challenges and risks. We all have a responsibility to keep children safe and well, and give them the best possible start in life.

The Child Safety Handbook provides all of us—parents, carers and the community—with valuable information to help do just that.

The handbook covers a wide range of safety risks and provides practical, clear advice about preventing and responding to harmful situations in all the places that children live, learn and play.

As parents, teachers, carers and community members, it is important to keep our knowledge up to date, to help children of all ages to thrive in a rapidly changing world. In particular, I welcome the inclusion of information about cyber safety.

Congratulations to Victoria Police Legacy and all the contributors for producing such a useful and timely resource for the Victorian community.

The Hon. Lisa Neville MP Minister for Police Victoria

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FOREWORD

MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER GRAHAM ASHTON AM The world is an exciting place for children to explore. We all want our children to enjoy a happy and nurturing childhood, and to develop a sense of confidence to engage and participate in the community.

Nowadays more than ever, our children are exposed to a range of influences from an early age, and it’s essential that we have the tools to keep them safe and protect them from harm.

This handbook provides a great range of tips for parents and communities, to engage with children and prevent harm before it occurs.

It’s important that we talk to children about their safety, and encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t seem quite right.

I would particularly encourage parents to read the advice about online safety, and take the time to familiarise themselves with the virtual environments popular amongst young people. Knowledge is the best tool we have in understanding how to engage safely online and reduce risks.

I support the work of Victoria Police Legacy in developing this handbook, and offer the ongoing commitment of Victoria Police to ensuring child safety.

Graham Ashton AM Chief Commissioner of Victoria

FOREWORD – POLICE LEGACY CHAIRMAN Victoria Police Legacy is honoured to provide the Child Safety Handbook to parents of primary school children throughout the State. This free handbook has attained an outstanding reputation as an invaluable resource guide for parents to help educate their children about key health and safety issues that confront them.

This is the second Child Safety Handbook Victoria Police Legacy has published and it gives me great pleasure that we can provide this updated and outstanding reference guide.

Victoria Police Legacy supports the children and families of deceased Police and Protective Service Officers across Victoria.

I would like to extend our gratitude to the organisations whose advertising in this handbook has made it possible to produce the Child Safety Handbook.

Stephen Cooper Chairperson Victoria Police Legacy 5

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CONTENTS Foreword by VIC Governor Foreword by VIC Commissioner of Police Foreword by VIC Premier Useful Contacts National Safe Schools Framework SAFETY AT SCHOOL

1 3 5 8 9

10 - 11

Bullying What is Bullying?

What is not Bullying?

Bullying is not acceptable Bullying roles How do I know if my child is being bullied?

Impact on students who are bullied Impact on bullies Impact on bystanders Impact on schools What people who have been bullied can do PERSONAL SAFETY

12 - 13

Child Abuse What is child abuse?

Physical abuse Sexual abuse Emotional abuse Neglect How can abuse and neglect be recognised?

Behavioural indicators What are the causes of child abuse?

Helping children who have been sexually abused If the child discloses sexual abuse to you Reporting child abuse SAFETY AT HOME

14 - 31

Home Alone Answering the phone Answering the door Parent’s guide to online safety Cyberbullying Trolling Too much time online Inappropriate, offensive & illegal content Safeguards Help and resources Window Safety Checklist Button battery safety Blind and curtain cord safety Toppling Furniture First Aid Allergic Reactions Asthma Attacks Bleeding Poisoning Sprains & Strains Cuts & Bruises First aid for cuts Burns & Scalds

First aid for burns and scalds DRSABCD action plan Choking Safe Play in Backyards Surfacing Swings Trampolines Cubby houses Water safety Safety with dogs Gas barbecue safety tips Tips for maintaining your barbecue Safe in the sun How safe is your pool barrier?

FIRE, FLOOD, STORM, 32 - 43 TSUNAMI & QUAKE SAFETY Fire Safety Kitchen and Cooking Smoke Alarm Home escape plan Pets and bushfires Plan and prepare – your bushfire plan Flood, Storm, Tsunami & Quake safety Floodsafe Stormsafe Quakesafe OUTDOOR SAFETY

45 - 51

STREET SMART

59 - 71

Keeping safe in crowds Dealing with Strangers Road safety Pedestrian safety Cyclist safety Safety in cars Choosing and using the safest restraint for your child Kids in hot cars Mobile phones, technology & driving Travelling with children Tram safety Train safety DRUG AWARENESS

72 - 73

Talking to your kids aged 15-17 Binge drinking – putting things in perspective Talking to your kids aged 9-14 Top 10 tips for parents

Playground safety Safety on trampolines Local council playgrounds Kids on farms Play safety Water safety Vehicle safety Safety around animals Other farm hazards Farm Water Safety Water Awareness Keep Watch @ The Farm Beach Safety Sun Safety Suncreen What is SPF? Boating safety HEALTH AND SAFETY

Signs & Symptoms Anaphylaxis Food Diagnosis Management & Treatment Common Food Allergy signs and symptoms Immunisation Pre-immunisation checklist Side effects after immunisation Concerns about side effects of immunisation

Publishing, advertising CILTA AWARDS

by Associated Media G

52 - 57

Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Mental health difficulties Risk and protective factors for children’s mental health What kinds of mental health difficulties do children experience?

Dental health Brushing teeth: getting started Brushing teeth: steps Healthy eating forchildren Teach your child healthy habits for a healthy life What are the dietary Guidelines?

Foods to limit: discretionary choices Encouraging healthy habits Serve sizes Food allergy or intolerance?

Produced, published and distributed on behalf of Victoria Police Legacy by: Associated Media Group Pty Ltd 33-35 Atchison Street St Leonards NSW 2065 T: 02 8416 5294 www.amgroup.net.au To support future editions of this handbook T: 02 8416 5294 E: cshb@amgroup.net.au Copyright © Victoria Police Legacy Ltd

2016 – 1 st edition DISCLAIMER: This publication is issued on terms and understanding that: (a) the publisher, Victoria Police Legacy, authors and editors are not responsible for the results of any action taken or advice followed or for any error in or omission from any information printed in this publication; and (b) the publisher, Victoria Police Legacy, authors and editors expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person, whether a purchaser or reader of this publication or not, in respect of anything, and of the consequences of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether wholly or partially, upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication.

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. Know the righ USEFUL CONTACTS

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

CRIME INFORMATION

SES EMERGENCY

TRIPLE ZERO (000) FOR POLICE, FIRE OR AMBULANCE

1800 333 000 CRIME STOPPERS

132 500 FOR FLOOD, STORM, TSUNAMI AND EARTHQUAKE

Remember to save these numbers to your phon NAME

PHONE NUMBER

WEBSITE

A

M Maritime and Aviation Rescue

(03) 9674 3000

www.amsa.gov.au

Mensline Australia

1300 789 978 (24/7)

www.mensline.org.au

Mental Health Foundation Victoria

(03) 98261422

www.mentalhealthvic.org.au

Alannah & Madeline Foundation

03 9697 0666

www.amf.org.au

Alcohol & Drug Information & Counselling Service (24 hours)

1800 888 236

www.directline.org.au

Metropolitan Fire Brigade

(03) 9662 2311

www.mfb.vic.gov.au

Alcoholics Anonymous Australia

03 94291833 / 1300 AA HOPE

www.aavictoria.org.au

Mission Australia Help Line

13 11 14

www.missionaustralia.com.au

Anaphylaxis Australia

1300 728 000

www.allergyfacts.org.au

N

Australian Childhood Foundation (counselling for children affected by abuse)

1800 176 453

www.childhood.org.au

National Disability Abuse and Neglect Hotline

1800 880 052

www.disabilityhotline.org

National Security Hotline

1800 123 400

www.nationalsecurity.gov.au

Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN)

1800 1234 00

www.acorn.gov.au

No to Violence

1300 766 491

www.ntv.org.au

Nurse on Call

1300 606 024

www.health.vic.gov.au/nurseoncall

Australian Drug Foundation (information)

1300 85 85 84

1800 880 176

www.esafety.gov.au/

Parent Line

13 22 89

www.education.vic.gov.au/about/ contact/Pages/parentline.aspx

Poisons Information Centre

131 126 (24 hours)

www.druginfo.adf.org.au

Office of the e-Safety Commissioner

B Beyond Blue

1300 22 4636

Bullying No Way Bushfire Information Line

O

www.beyondblue.org.au www.bullyingnoway.com.au

P

1800 240 667

www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Child Protection Helpline

131 278 (24/7)

www.dhs.vic.gov.au

Q

Country Fire Authority

(03) 9262 8444

www.cfa.vic.gov.au

Quitline – for counselling

Crime Stoppers Hotline

1800 333 000

www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

R

C

D

Raising Children Network

Dental Hospital Service (Emergency Only)

(03) 9341 1040

Domestic Violence Line

1800 015 188

www.dvvic.org.au

G Gender Centre (services for people with gender issues)

(02) 9569 2366

www.gendercentre.org.au

13 7848 (13 QUIT)

www.icanquit.com.au

1300 309 988

www.mfb.vic.gov.au/Community/ Safety-Programs/Fire-Awareness. html

J Juvenile Fire Awareness and Intervention Program

1800 55 1800

www.kidshelpline.com.au

13 11 14 (24 hours)

www.lifeline.org.au

L Life Line

8

www.raisingchildren.net.au

Rape & Domestic Violence Counselling Line

1800 737 732 / 1800 RESPECT

www.1800respect.org.au

Relationships Australia

1300 364 277

www.relationships.com.au

Salvation Army Care Line

13 72 58 / 13 SALVOS

www.salvos.org.au

State Emergency Service Information Line

1300 842 737

www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Sexual Assault Crisis Line

1800 806 292

www.sacl.com.au

Suicide Call Back Service

1300 659 467

T

K Kids Help Line

www.quitnow.info.au

S

I I can Quit

13 7848 (13 QUIT)

The Royal Children's Hospital

(03) 9345 5522

www.rch.org.au

Translating and Interpreting Service

13 14 50 (interpreter over the telephone)

www.immi.gov.au/tis

(03) 9486-9866

www.melbourne.homeless.org.au/ womens

W Women's Refuges and Shelters

NATIONAL SAFE SCHOOLS FRAMEWORK AND THE SAFE SCHOOLS HUB The National Safe Schools Framework provides Australian schools with a vision and a set of guiding principles that assist school communities to develop positive and practical student safety and wellbeing policies.

The National Safe Schools Framework (the Framework) is a key resource now available at the Safe Schools Hub. The Framework provides school communities with a vision, a set of guiding principles and the practical tools and resources that will help build a positive school culture.

Building on the original 2003 Framework, a revised Framework was endorsed by all ministers for education in December 2010. The Australian Government collaborates with state and territory governments to support the Framework as part of a national approach to make sure our school communities are safe and supportive.

To support schools to implement the Framework the Australian Government has worked with Education Services Australia to deliver the Safe Schools Hub. The Hub is an online one-stop shop that provides school communities including teachers, school leaders, students, parents and specialist professionals with a range of safe

guiding principles emphasise the importance of student safety and wellbeing for effective learning in all school settings.

school strategies and resources that are underpinned by the Framework.

Vision The Framework is based on the following overarching vision: All Australian schools are safe, supportive and respectful teaching and learning communities that promote student wellbeing.

Guiding principles The vision is supported by guiding principles for safe, supportive and respectful school communities. These

Australian schools: • affirm the rights of all members of the school community to feel safe and be safe at school • acknowledge that being safe and supported at school is essential for student wellbeing and effective learning • accept responsibility for developing and sustaining safe and supportive learning and teaching communities that also fulfill the school’s child protection responsibilities • encourage the active participation of all school community members in developing and maintaining a safe school community where diversity is valued • actively support young people to develop understanding and skills to keep themselves and others safe commit to developing a safe school community through a whole-school and evidence-based approach Visit Safe Schools

Visit Dept of Education and Training

How to use Icons in this App Tap icons below in each section to navigate to website, videos, brochures or apps to keep up to date with the latest safety messages. Remember child safety is no accident!

Website

Video

PDF

APP

Links to external website

Links to video

Links to pdf information

Link to download app for your smart phone / tablet 9

SAFETY AT SCHOOL BULLYING WHAT IS BULLYING? There are some specific types of bullying behaviour: • verbal or written abuse - such as targeted name-calling or jokes, or displaying offensive posters • violence - including threats of violence • sexual harassment - unwelcome or unreciprocated conduct of a sexual nature, which could reasonably be expected to cause offence, humiliation or intimidation • homophobia and other hostile behaviour towards students relating to gender and sexuality • discrimination including racial discrimination - treating people differently because of their identity • cyberbullying - either online or via mobile phone.

WHAT IS NOT BULLYING? There are also some behaviours, which, although they might be unpleasant or distressing, are not bullying: • mutual conflict - which involves a disagreement, but not an imbalance of power. Unresolved mutual conflict can develop into bullying if one of the parties targets the other repeatedly in retaliation.

• single-episode acts of nastiness or physical aggression, or aggression directed towards many different people, is not bullying • social rejection or dislike is not bullying unless it involves deliberate and repeated attempts to cause distress, exclude or create dislike by others.

BULLYING IS NOT ACCEPTABLE It is important to recognise bullying behaviours and make it clear they are unacceptable, but it is also important to try not to label

10

students as ‘a bully’.

Most students don’t want bullying to occur but often don’t know what to do about it. It’s important that all forms of bullying are taken seriously and that schools, parents and students work together to ensure that everyone understands that bullying is not acceptable - ever.

BULLYING ROLES People in a bullying scenario may take on one of the following roles: • a person who engages in bullying behaviour • a target who is subjected to the bullying behaviour • an assistant who assists the bullying behaviour and actively joins in • a supporter who encourages and gives silent approval to the bullying, by smiling, laughing or making comments • a silent bystander who sees or knows about someone being

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS BEING BULLIED? Some of the signs that a child is bullied may include: • unwillingness or refusal to go to school • not doing well at school • becoming withdrawn • being tearful • loss of confidence • sleeping problems • refusing to talk about what’s wrong If your child seems depressed, unusually upset or physically injured in some way and is unwilling to discuss it with you, consider talking to your school counsellor or your family doctor. Your child may benefit from specialised assistance.

bullied but is passive and does nothing, this may be an adult bystander • a defender who supports the student who is being bullied by intervening, getting teacher

SAFETY AT SCHOOL

support or comforting them.

All adults, including teachers, school staff and parents, should model positive bystander behaviour and intervene if they observe bullying behaviour occurring between students.

Standing by and doing nothing, or leaving students to ‘sort it out’ themselves, sends the message to the whole school community that the bullying behaviour is being condoned.

Young people are still learning and practicing social skills. Everyone has the capacity to change their behaviour but being given a label can stick and make these changes much harder.

Find out more on Bullying

IMPACT ON STUDENTS WHO ARE BULLIED Bullying has a negative impact on everyone involved; the target, the bully and the bystanders.

Students who are bullied are more likely to: • feel disconnected from school and not like school • have lower academic outcomes, including lower attendance and completion rates • lack quality friendships at school • display high levels of emotion that indicate vulnerability and

low levels of resilience • be less well accepted by peers, avoid conflict and be socially withdrawn • have low self-esteem • have depression, anxiety, feelings of loneliness and isolation • have nightmares • feel wary or suspicious of others • have an increased risk of depression and substance abuse • in extreme cases, have a higher risk of suicide, however, the reasons why a person may be at risk of suicide are extremely complicated.

Contributing factors to being bullied may include: • depression • family problems • history of trauma • belonging to a minority group, where isolation or lack of community support is an issue.

IMPACT ON BULLIES Students who frequently bully others are more likely to: • feel disconnected from school and dislike school • get into fights, vandalise property and leave school early.

In addition, recent Victorian research has shown that bullying perpetration in Year 10 is associated with an increased likelihood

of theft, violent behaviour and binge drinking.

IMPACT ON BYSTANDERS Students who witness bullying may: • be reluctant to attend school • feel fearful or powerless to act and guilty for not acting • have increased mental health problems, including depression and anxiety • have increased use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs.

IMPACT ON SCHOOLS When bullying continues and a school does not take action, the entire school climate and culture can be negatively affected. This impacts on student learning and engagement, staff retention and satisfaction and parental confidence in the school, which can lead to: • the school developing an environment of fear and disrespect • students experiencing difficulty learning • students feeling insecure • students disliking school • students perceiving that teachers and staff have little control and don’t care about them.

For more information visit www.education.vic.gov.au

What people who have been bullied can do While the people doing the bullying need to be firmly and clearly assisted to change their behaviours, those who have been bullied also need be re-empowered so they are equipped for the future.

Some people who have been bullied believe the negative messages about them and feel ashamed.

It is important to help de-personalise the bullying. Often we discuss bullying as a primitive, nasty behaviour used to assert dominance at someone else’s expense. Many people bully others because they feel bad about themselves. For this reason we explain bullying to people who have experienced it as ‘nasty monkey’ behaviour.

Immature primates engage in dom-

inating behaviours. When unsupervised and in conditions where there is an opportunity to inflate individual social position, many will be tempted to exploit the vulnerability of others.

This helps people who have been bullied to see that the bullying is not their fault.

This is followed with training in deflection techniques so students are not overly reactive or sensitive to future taunts or negative comments.

Students are then helped to refocus on strengthening other social connections and interests.

The other part of dealing with bullying is to create a school culture, which makes bullying uncool and empowers others who witnesses to bullying and to make a stand.

HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT • Take the bullying incident seriously and also know that your child’s school will.

• Let the school take responsibility for helping students who are bullying to change their ways.

• Take your child’s distress seriously but also convey a message that ‘we are going to fix this’.

• Help them to de-personalise the message given to them by bullies by saying things like; “That is not true—they are just being mean.” or “Just because they say that doesn’t mean it’s true— there are lots of people who know how wonderful you are.”

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PERSONAL SAFETY CHILD ABUSE What is child abuse?

Child abuse is an act by parents or caregivers which endangers a child or young person’s physical or emotional health or development. Child abuse can be a single incident, but usually takes place over time.

In Victoria, under the Children Youth and Families Act 2005 a child or young person is a person under eighteen years of age.

Physical abuse Physical abuse occurs when a child suffers or is likely to suffer significant harm from an injury inflicted by a child’s parent or caregiver. The injury may be inflicted intentionally or may be the inadvertent consequence of physical punishment or physically aggressive treatment of a child.

The injury may take the form of bruises, cuts, burns or fractures.

Sexual abuse Sexual abuse occurs when a person uses power or authority over a child to involve the child in sexual activity and the child’s parent or caregiver has not protected the child. Physical force is sometimes involved.

Child sexual abuse involves a wide range of sexual activity. It includes fondling of the child’s genitals, masturbation, oral sex, vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, finger or other object, or exposure of the child to pornography.

Emotional abuse Emotional Abuse occurs when a child’s parent or caregiver repeatedly rejects the child or uses threats to frighten the child. This may involve name calling, put downs or continual coldness from the parent or caregiver, to the extent that it significantly damages the child’s physical, social, intellectual or emotional development.

Neglect Neglect is the failure to provide 12

the child with the basic necessities of life such as food, clothing, shelter, medical attention or supervision, to the extent that the child’s health and development is, or is likely to be, significantly harmed.

How can abuse and neglect be recognised?

Behavioural or physical signs which assist in recognising child abuse are known as indicators. A single indicator can be as important an indicator as the presence of several indicators. A child’s behaviour is likely to be affected if he/she is under stress. There can be many causes of stress, including child abuse, and it is important to find out specifically what is causing the stress.

Physical Abuse Physical indicators include: • Bruises, burns, sprains, dislocations, bites, cuts • Fractured bones, especially in an infant where a fracture is unlikely to occur accidentally • Poisoning • Internal injuries Possible behavioural indicators include: • Showing wariness or distrust of adults • Wearing long sleeved clothes on hot days (to hide bruising or other injury) • Demonstrating fear of parents and of going home • Becoming fearful when other children cry or shout • Being excessively friendly to strangers • Being very passive and compliant Sexual Abuse Sexual abuse is not usually identified through physical indicators. Often the first sign is when a child tells someone they trust that they have been sexually abused. However the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, or vaginal or

anal bleeding or discharge may indicate sexual abuse.

One or more of these behavioural indicators may be present: • Child telling someone that sexual abuse has occurred • Complaining of headaches or stomach pains • Experiencing problems with schoolwork • Displaying sexual behaviour or knowledge which is unusual for the child’s age • Showing behaviour such as frequent rocking, sucking and biting • Experiencing difficulties in sleeping • Having difficulties in relating to adults and peers Emotional Abuse There are few physical indicators, although emotional abuse may cause delays in emotional, mental, or even physical development.

Possible behavioural indicators include: • Displaying low self esteem • Tending to be withdrawn, passive, tearful • Displaying aggressive or demanding behaviour • Being highly anxious • Showing delayed speech • Acting like a much younger child, eg. soiling, wetting pants • Displaying difficulties in relating to adults and peers Neglect Physical indicators include: • Frequent hunger • Malnutrition • Poor hygiene • Inappropriate clothing, eg.

Summer clothes in winter • Left unsupervised for long periods • Medical needs not attended to • Abandoned by parents Possible behavioural indicators include: • stealing food

PERSONAL SAFETY

• staying at school outside school hours • often being tired, falling asleep in class • abusing alcohol or drugs • displaying aggressive behaviour • not getting on well with peers The presence of indicators such as those described may alert us to the possibility that a child is being abused. It is important that anyone who has concerns that a child or young person is in need of protection contacts a local Child Protection Service for assistance and advice.

What are the causes of child abuse?

There is not any single fact which causes child abuse; abuse usually occurs in families where there is a combination of risk factors.

Abuse and neglect occur most often in families who are under pressure and lack support. Most abuse other than sexual abuse occurs in families to which some, or all, of the following apply: • Poverty • Lack of education • Serious marital problems • Frequent changes of addresses • Violence between family members • Lack of support from the extended family • Loneliness and social isolation • Unemployment • Inadequate housing In some cases the abuser may also display the following: • Very high expectations of the child and what the child should achieve • The parent may have been abused as a child • A lack of knowledge and skills in bringing up children • Low self esteem and self confidence • Depression • Alcohol and/or drug abuse • Mental or physical ill health • Work pressures Certain community attitudes may encourage child abuse. These include: • Acceptance of the use of violence and force

• Acceptance of physical punishment of children • Acceptance of parents “ownership” of children and their right to treat children as they see fit • Racism • Inequality between men and women Helping children who have been sexually abused Children will either disclose abuse directly by describing what has occurred or indirectly through behavioural signs and indicators.

Discovering or suspecting that a child has been sexually abused can be a distressing experience.

Most people feel a range of emotions including anger, sadness, shock, disbelief, disgust and helplessness. It is important to stay calm and not convey these feelings to the child as this may prevent the child from making further disclosures.

The child’s feelings about themselves may be influenced by your initial reaction to the abuse. If the child senses a horrified response, this may reinforce and perpetuate a child’s feelings of guilt and shame.

If the child discloses sexual abuse to you Tell the child that you believe them.

Make it clear that whatever has happened is not the child’s fault.

Reassure the child that they did the right thing in telling you.

Many abusers threaten the child to prevent disclosure.

Tell the child that some adults do wrong things and that the abuser is responsible for the abuse.

Do everything possible to comfort and reassure the child.

Explain what action you will take next. Do not make promises that you will not be able to keep, nor promise the child confidentiality.

The child has enough secrets and needs someone to act on their behalf to stop the abuse.

Consult with your local Department of Human Services Child Protection Intake Team, Centre Against Sexual Assault or a local sexual offences and child abuse

investigating team.

Some professionals are now mandated to report child sexual abuse. If you are unsure of what to do whether you are mandated or not, do stop and consult.

Be clear about your role — if you have a reasonable suspicion of sexual abuse, report your concerns to the appropriate authorities. It is not your responsibility to prove the case.

Remember: Child sexual abuse will not stop unless adults take effective action on behalf of the child and report their concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Learn more about how to Report Child Abuse

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE For those who are concerned about a child in relation to child abuse or neglect to making a report to child protection services in Victoria.

Protective Concerns You are concerned about a child because you have: • Received a disclosure from a child about abuse or neglect • Observed indicators of abuse or neglect • Been made aware of possible harm via your involvement in the community external to your professional role At all times remember to: • Record your observations • Follow appropriate protocols • Consult notes and records • Consult with appropriate colleagues if necessary • Consult with other support agencies if necessary Child abuse is a serious problem. In Victoria, if you suspect a case of child abuse or are mandated to report abuse, then you can contact Child Protection for advice.

For immediate help To report concerns that are life threatening call Victoria Police 000.

To report concerns about the immediate safety of a child within their family unit, call the Child Protection Crisis Line 13 12 78 (24 hours, 7 days a week, toll free within Victoria) For more information visit Department of Human Services - www.dhs.vic.gov.au

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SAFETY AT HOME HOME ALONE There is no particular age at which children can be safely left at home alone. As parents, we decide that based on our child’s maturity and our own individual circumstances. Start with giving them short periods of time alone at home and gradually increase the duration, ensuring your child knows how to contact you or another responsible nearby adult in case of an emergency. Here’s how you can help prepare and keep them safe:

ANSWERING THE PHONE Tips for parents: • Installing an answering machine enables your children to hear who is calling and then decide to answer or not.

• If you or your child receives obscene or threatening phone calls, hang up immediately, notify your local police and the phone company.

Tips for children: • Always say to the person calling “My parents can’t come to the phone. Can I take a message?”

• Never say your parents aren’t home to anyone who calls, comes to the door, or you chat with online.

• Never tell your address to the person calling or contacting you online.

• Never answer the phone by saying your first name or last name.

• If the person calling asks for you by name, say “Who would you like to speak to?”.

• If the person calling asks you “What number is this?” say to them “What number were you trying to call?”.

• You don’t have to speak to anyone or tell them anything.

• If someone says something rude or threatening to you, hang up immediately and contact your parents.

ANSWERING THE DOOR Tips for parents: • Install a lockable screen door and a peephole in the front door.

14

• If it is night, leave the outside light on.

• Ensure all emergency numbers, including a reliable relative’s or friend’s, are listed by the phone.

• Practise ‘pretend-dialing’ emergency numbers from your list, with your child. Rehearse what they should say.

Tips for children: • Keep the screen door locked.

• Always ask “Who is it?” before answering the door.

• Always look through the peephole before answering the door – if it’s a stranger, or someone you don’t trust, you can pretend you are not at home.

• If you do not know the person or if it is a person you do not trust, do not let them in. If they do not leave, call the police and call a neighbour or a trusted nearby adult.

• Make sure you know where all the emergency numbers are kept near the phone and practise pretending to dial them.

IF SOMEONE TRIES TO ENTER THE HOUSE Call the police immediately. Dial 000 Telephone your parents, your neighbour or another adult you trust.

SAFETY AT HOME

PARENT’S GUIDE TO ONLINE SAFETY With the aim to help guide children and young people toward safe, enjoyable experiences online, the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner (the Office) hopes to encourage behavioural change—where Australian children and young people act responsibly online—just as they would offline. To achieve this, we hope to both educate and help prevent harmful online behaviour from occurring in the first place. As parents, you know your child better than anyone, and have the best opportunity to help educate them so they can explore, safely.

CYBERBULLYING Cyberbullying is the use of technology to bully a person or group with the intent to hurt them socially, psychologically or even physically.

Cyberbullying behaviour may include: • abusive texts and emails • hurtful messages, images or videos • imitating others online • excluding others online • humiliating others online • nasty online gossip and chat.

HOW TO REPORT HOW TO REPORT CYBERBULLYING MATERIAL CYBERBULLYING MATERIAL

11

By reporting it, talking about it and supporting each other, we can stop it.

2 2

For many children and teenagers, their online life is an important part of their social identity. They can’t just ‘switch it off’. Many young people do not report cyberbullying to their parents as they fear that they might lose access to their devices and the internet.

Young people may also be concerned that parents’ actions will make cyberbullying issues worse, so it is important for you to remain calm and supportive.

Collect evidence - copy Collect evidence -ofcopy take screenshots the take screenshots of the

URLs or URLs or material material

If the content is not removed within 48 hours If the content is not removed within 48 hours

3 3

Report it to Report it to esafety.gov.au/reportcyberbullying esafety.gov.au/reportcyberbullying

4 4 OCESC001.1509 OCESC001.1509

TROLLING Trolling is when a user intentionally causes distress by posting inflammatory comments online.

• Trolling differs from cyberbullying in that trolls aim to gain attention and power through disruption of conversation by encouraging a defensive reaction from those they attack.

Cyberbullying usually focus-

Report the cyberbullying material to Report themedia cyberbullying the social service material to the social media service

Block the person and talk to Block the you person and talk to someone trust someone you trust

If you are in immediate danger, call 000 (triple zero) you to aretalk in immediate danger, call 000 (triple zero)or call If you Ifneed to someone, visit kidshelpline.com.au If youthem need on to talk visit kidshelpline.com.au 1800to 55someone, 1800, 24 hours a day 7 days a weekor call them on 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day 7 days a week

15

Are you a PowerSafe Buddy?

Hi, I’m Plugger and this is my little mate Bluey.

We can show you how to stay safe around electricity and gas!

Visit our website at www.powersafebuddies.vic.gov.au There are lots of fun games to play and videos to watch.

Finish them all and you’ll become a Powersafe Buddy.

16

SAFETY AT HOME

es less on the reaction of the victim, and more on the feelings and authority of the bully. Cyberbullying is usually repeated behaviour, while trolling can be one-off.

What can I do?

As a parent, you can help your child and encourage them to take control of the issue.

Talk to them about cyberbullying before it happens. Together you should work out strategies to address any potential issues and reassure your child that you will be there to support them.

• Report the cyberbullying material to the social media service where it happened.

Social media services should remove cyberbullying material that has been reported and is in breach of their terms and conditions.

Most social media services have a reporting area on their website.

The Office website also provides information about how to report material on various services.

• Collect details of the cyberbullying material. You might need to do this before you report it to the site. A simple way to collect this information is by taking a photo or screenshot or copying the URL. If you submit a complaint to the Office about cyberbullying material, you need to provide this information.

Report cyberbullying to the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner.

• Block the person. We recommend that you help your child block or unfriend the person upsetting them, so they cannot continue to upset them whilethe material is being removed.

• Remember that if your child has been involved in cyberbullying, and seems distressed or shows changes in behaviour or mood, it may be advisable to seek professional support through Kids Helpline.

Kids Helpline is a free and confidential online and phone coun-

selling service for young people, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1800 55 1800. esafety.gov.au/reportcyberbullying

TOO MUCH TIME ONLINE To many parents it seems as though children and young people are constantly online.

Often they seem to be engaged in more than one task at a time; for example, downloading and listening to music while studying and chatting with friends or sending messages on their mobile phones.

The number of hours that children and young people spend online can vary significantly.

There is no guideline for the ‘right’ amount of time for children to spend online, however, if their online activity appears to impact negatively on their behaviour or wellbeing, or that of the family, it may be time to discuss expectations and establish time limits.

It’s important to remember that some of the time your children spend online may be related to their education.

What can I do?

• The longer you wait to address the issue, the more difficult it can be to overcome. So if you see an emerging problem arising from excessive use, act on it right away.

• Talk to your child about the concerns you have and monitor what games, apps and devices are bought or used by your child.

• You may like to install a program on the device your child is using which can be adjusted to limit the amount of time an internet connection will be available on that device.

• Consider implementing family agreements about the amount of time your children can spend online.

A similar approach can be used

to limit access to devices.

• If your child seems particularly anxious or irritable, or you notice them seeming isolated from friends or other activities, there may be an underlying mental health issue. Talk to your child’s school or your GP if your concerns extend beyond screen time. esafety.gov.au/timeonline

INAPPROPRIATE, OFFENSIVE & ILLEGAL CONTENT Inappropriate,offensive or illegal content may include topics, images or other information that are prohibited in Australia or could be damagingto young people online.

Children and young people may not deliberately seek out inappropriate content. They may inadvertently access content while undertaking online searches, they may seek it out, or be referred to it by others.

Young people with smartphones might also be able to discover content that may be blocked by home and school internet filters.

Offensive or illegal content may include topics, images or other information that are prohibited in Australia or could be damaging to young people online. Offensive or illegal content can expose children to concepts that they are not ready to manage and that may breach social and cultural norms.

Some content can be distressing for children.

They may not report it to parents or teachers as they may be ashamed of what they have seen, particularly if they sought it out.

This is content that may: • Include footage of real or simulated violence, criminal activity or accidents, promote extreme political or religious views or be sexually explicit.

This can include illegal images of child sexual abuse.

17

SAFETY AT HOME

• Promote hate towards individuals or groups on the basis of race, religion, sexual preference or other social/cultural factors, instruct or promote crime, violence or unsafe behaviour, like bomb or weapon making, anorexia, drug use, gaining unauthorised access to computers, fraud or terrorism.

What can I do?

• Encourage your child to tell you about inappropriate content they have come across andmake a complaint about specific content.

• Limit their exposure to inappropriate content by supervising their online time where possible.

• Install filters, labels and safe zones that enable you to reduce their risk of exposure to unsuitable or illegal sites.

• Keep them connected to trusted friends and family online and offline.

• Help your child use search engines to locate websites.

Consider developing a list of favourites for younger children.

• Reassure your child that access to the internet will not be denied if they tell you about seeing inappropriate content.

• If you are worried, or your child is vulnerable, please seek professional support.

• Report inappropriate content to the site administrator.

• The Office can investigate complaints about content that may be illegal or prohibited. Reportthis content to esafety.gov.au/ reportillegalcontent

SAFEGUARDS If a child has access to an internet-enabled device, they also have access to an extensive amount of content across the web.

There are many ways parents can help their children to explore safely.

What can I do?

• Put in place online safeguards and parental controls-settings, filters and products that helpblock certain content so that you are better able toprotect what your children see online.

Parental controls are available for most devices in the form of pre-installed settings that you can activate, or via the installation of free or commercial software.

Some examples are: + Customisable computer accounts set up for your children. + Settings that you can apply to your computer to restrict access to downloads, apps, purchasing, games and to set internet usage time limits. + Settings you can apply to your

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SAFETY AT HOME

router to restrict access to online content. + Apps or settings applied to your child’s mobile phone to restrict access to browsers, apps, social networking sites, inappropriate content, photo and/or video sharing sites, streaming, and gaming. + Commercial or free internet filters which can alert you to contact from strangers outside of approved social networks, restrict access to inappropriate content, monitor your child’s online activity, restrict online usage times, and track GPS location, calls, SMS and contacts.

• Remember that no single parental control tool is 100 per cent effective. Some content and sites can be encrypted in such a way that they are not recognised by parental controls, or a tech-savvy child may have the ability to bypass parental controls.

You can also: • Encourage and model good behaviours with your kids around their use of connected devices, for example not bringing devices to the dinner table.

• Set healthy limits about how much time is spent online each day, and for what purpose.

• Implement boundaries such as only using devices in a ‘safe space’, like the living room, or having an open door policy when children use devices or computers in the bedroom.

Be prepared to stick to these boundaries yourself.

• Learn to understand the devices your children use, and talk to them about the importance of staying safe online and being aware of the behaviours of themselves and others.

• Establish and maintain trust. It’s hard to monitor your children’s online activity at all times so trust is important.

Further information about discussing these issues with your children can be found at: esafety.gov.au/chatterbox esafety.gov.au/safeguards

HELP AND RESOURCES Check out the following support services and resources to help you keep your family safe online.

The Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner The Office’s website contains information and related links to support parents in keeping kids safe online. Resources include practical, action focussed advice, videos, games, support, and research-based information, and everything is free of charge. esafety.gov.au School support Many schools have detailed policies and procedures in place to help support children online, including how to manage issues like cyberbullying, sexting and other online concerns.

The Department of Education policies in each state provide information for students, teachers, parents and the broader community to help raise awareness and counter the inappropriate use of technology.

For more information, contact your child’s school.

Online counselling If you suspect or know that a child is being negatively impacted by things happening to them online, consider seeking professional support for them.

Kids Helpline Kids Helpline service provides free, confidential online counselling for

children and young people. Kids Helpline also provides young people experiencing problems online with free and private web chat counselling. kidshelpline.com.au or phone 1800 55 1800 eHeadspace eHeadspace is a confidential, free and secure space where young people aged 12 to 25 or their family can chat, email or speak on the phone with a qualified youth mental health professional. eheadspace.org.au

RESOURCES Parentline Parentline provides a counselling, information and referral service for parents that operates seven days a week between 8am and 10pm. parentline.com.au or phone 1300 30 1300 Lifeline Lifeline provides free 24-hour crisis counselling and information about support services. lifeline.org.au or phone 13 11 14.

Crime Stoppers Crimestoppers or your local police can assist with concerns about children’s personal safety. crimestoppers.com.au or phone 1800 333 000

19

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13 63 73 bankvic.com.au

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SAFETY AT HOME

WINDOW SAFETY CHECKLIST Preventing falls out of wind ows is as important as learning how to use one in an em ergency.

Unattended children run the greatest risk of falls and injuries, so the be st first step is to watch your children as they play. Nothing can substitute for careful supervision.

Fires and falls are among the leading causes of injury and death in young children. While some falls occur from windows, it is important to realise that in the event of a fire, a window can also save a child’s life. This iswhy windows play a critical role in home safety.

Has your family determined an emergency fireescape plan?

Determine your family’s emergency escape plan and practice it regularly. In the plan, include two avenues of escape from every room. Remember children may have to rely on a window to escape a fire. Help them learn to safely use a window under these circumstances. Make sure you have identified a safe meeting place outside.

Do you keep windows shut when children are around?

You should keep your windows closed and locked when childrenare around. When opening windows for ventilation, open windows that children cannot reach or those with restrictors fitted. Also, set and enforce rules about keeping children’s play away from windows and/or glazed doors.

Falling through the glass can be fatal or cause a serious injury.

Do you leave, or have you left, windows open because you thought the insect screen provided a safeguard from a fall?

Don’t rely on insect screens to prevent a fall. Insect screens are designed to provide ventilation while keeping insects out; theyare not designed to, nor will

they prevent a child’s fall from a window.

Is there furniture placed under or near windows in your home?

Keep furniture — or anything children can climb — away from windows. Children may use such objects as a climbing aid.

Are your windows fitted with key locks, vent locks or dead locks?

Make sure that keys to all locked or restricted windows and doors are accessible in case of emergency. Each and every window and door must be able to be opened quickly when required.

Inspect your home’s windows carefully. Are any windows in your home painted or nailed shut?

Never paint or nail windows shut.

You should be able to open them to escape in an emergency.

Did you know that strategic landscaping may lessen the extent of injury sustained in the event fall does occur?

Plant shrubs and soft edging like wood chips or grass under windows to cushion potential falls. The surface can greatly affect the degree of injury sustained from a fall.

For more information visit awa.org.au or consumer.vic.gov. au/productsafety

Download a Window Safety Tip brochure

21

• PLAY IT SAFE at HOME • Hazard-proof your home today

ABOUT

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SAFETY AT HOME

BUTTON BATTERY SAFETY DID YOU KNOW?

Learn more about Button Battery Safety

PREVENTION

• In Australia, an estimated 4 children per week present to an emergency department with an injury related to a button battery. Kids under 5 years old represent the greatest risk.

• When a coin-sized lithium button battery gets stuck in a child’s throat, the saliva triggers an electrical current. This causes a chemical reaction that can severely burn the oesophagus in as little as two hours.

• Symptoms of coin-sized button battery ingestion may be similar to other childhood illnesses, such as coughing, drooling, and discomfort.

• Once burning begins, damage can continue even after the battery is removed.

Learn more about Button Battery Safety in the Home

TREATMENT

Kids under 4 are at the greatest risk.

Many coin-sized button batteries can appear “invisible” to parents because devices come with the batteries already installed. To keep your children safe: • Look in your home for any items that may contain coin-sized button batteries.

• Place devices out of sight and out of reach of small children.

• Keep loose or spare batteries locked away.

• Share this life-saving information with caregivers, friends, family members and babysitters.

Keeping these batteries locked away and secured in devices is key, but if a coin-sized button battery is swallowed, you should follow these steps: • Go to the emergency room immediately. Tell doctors and nurses that it might be a coin-sized button battery.

• If possible, provide the medical team with the identification number found on the battery’s pack.

• Do not let the child eat or drink until an X-ray can determine if a battery is present.

• Do not induce vomiting.

TheBatteryControlled.com.au Poisons Information Centre: 13 1126 For more information visit productsafety.gov.au

BLIND AND CURTAIN CORD SAFETY

Steps Steps for protecting for protecting children children Take these four simple steps to ensure that blind Take these four simple steps to ensure that blind and curtain cords/chains are out of reach of children, and curtain cords/chains are out of reach of children, particularly from children under six. particularly from children under six.

1. Check your blind and curtain cords 1. Check your blind and curtain cords

Check for loose or looped cords that your

Check for loose or looped cords that your child can reach from the floor or by climbing child can reach from the floor or by climbing on furniture. on furniture.

STEPS FOR PROTECTING CHILDREN

Immediately tie cords out of reach and move

Immediately tie cords out of reach and move away any furniture children might climb on to away any furniture children might climb on to reach reach them. them.

Take these four simple steps to ensure that blind and curtain cords/chains are out of reach of children, particularly from children under six.

Do this anywhere you are staying, including Do this anywhere you are staying, including on holiday. on holiday.

2. Secure your cords out of reach 2. Secure your cords out of reach

Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing

Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing cords from a hardware store or curtain and cords from a hardware store or curtain and blind shop. blind shop.

Use screws to fix each cleat or tensioning device

Use screws to fix each cleat or tensioning device in a place that is out of reach of children. in a place that is out of reach of children.

Never Never securesecure these these devices devices with materials with materials that that

1. Check your blind and curtain cords a Check for loose or looped cords that your child can reach from the floor or by climbing on furniture. a Immediately tie cords out of reach and move away any furniture children might climb on to reach them. a Do this anywhere you are staying, including on holiday.

2. Secure your cords out of reach a Buy cleats or tensioning devices for securing cords from a hardware store or curtain and blind shop. a Use screws to fix each cleat or tensioning device in a place that is out of reach of children.

Never secure these devices with materials that may fail when a load is placed on them, such as double-sided tape or glue.

If you cannot fix your unsafe cords and chains out of reach yourself, get a reliable tradesperson to do it for you. If you are renting your home, seek help from your landlord or agent. x

3. Choose safe blinds and curtains Buy new curtains and blinds which: a comply with the national mandatory standard a have warning labels to remind you of dangers to children a provide a way to secure cords/ chains so there are no loops or

strands that children can reach, or a operate without exposed cords/chains.

4. Keep children away from all cords/chains a Move anything a young child can sit in, stand or climb on (like cots, highchairs, beds, sofas, tables, chairs and bookshelves) away from cords/ chains—even those tied around a cleat, as your child may be able to untie them. x Do not let children play near cords/chains they can reach. x Never leave children alone in a room with cords/chains they can reach.

For more information visit consumer.vic.gov.au/ productsafety

may fail when a load is placed on them, such as may fail when a load is placed on them, such as double-sided double-sided tape or tape glue. or glue.

Find out more about Blind Curtain Cord Safety

Learn about the Curtain and Cord Safety Kit

23

SAFETY AT HOME

TOPPLING FURNITURE

Why Anchor it?

Small children have died or suffered serious injuries from unstable furniture. Small children can be trapped under furniture; unable to breathe or be hit/struck by falling furniture. You can prevent death or injury to small children when choosing and securing furniture in your home.

There are simple ways to prevent death or serious injury to small children when choosing and securing furniture in your home by anchoring furniture.

Buy Safe • Purchase low-set furniture or furniture with sturdy, stable and broad bases.

• Look for furniture that comes with safety information or equipment for anchoring it to the walls.

• Test the furniture in the shop— make sure it is stable. For example, pull out the top drawers of a chest of drawers and apply a little pressure to see how stable it is; make sure the drawers do not fall out easily.

Use safe • Attach, mount, bolt or otherwise secure furniture to walls and floors.

• Do not put heavy items on top shelves of bookcases.

• Place televisions at the back of cabinets or secure them to the wall.

• Discourage small children from climbing on furniture.

• Do not put tempting items such as favourite toys on top of furniture that encourage children to climb up and reach.

• Do not place unstable furniture near where children play.

• Put locking devices on all drawers to prevent children opening them and using them as steps.

For more information on toppling furniture, visit www.productsafety.gov.au/ anchorfurniture or consumer.vic. gov.au/productsafety

How safe is your hot water?

At 60°C, hot water can cause a full thickness burn in less than a second.* And of all the Aussie kids who suffer scalding from hot tap water each year, more than 90% of their accidents take place in the bathroom.^ If you’re replacing bathroom fittings or installing a new hot water system, remember that Australia’s maximum hot water delivery temperature is 50°C.

AGL can make sure your hot water is delivered safely with a temperature controlled hot water unit.

All our continuous flow and storage tanks are 50°C limited, or if you would like to adapt your existing system we can install a tempering valve to deliver water at a safe temperature.

Think safety first. Call AGL on 131 766 today. *Source: Kidsafe New South Wales Inc, ‘Hot water like fire’. April 2010. ^Source: ‘Child Safety Handbook, Edition 5: A guide to injury prevention for parents of 6-12 year olds’, Compiled by the Royal Children’s Hospital Safety Centre, Melbourne.

24

Find out more about anchoring furniture

Watch how to anchor furniture

SAFETY AT HOME

FIRST AID BASIC FIRST AID ALLERGIC REACTIONS Signs & Symptoms • Swelling and redness of the skin.

• Itchy, raised rash (live hives).

• Swelling of the throat.

• Wheezing and/or coughing.

• Rapid, irregular pulse.

• Tightness in the chest.

• Headache.

• Vomiting and/or abdominal pain.

• Dizziness or unconsciousness.

MANAGEMENT 1. Follow DRSABCD : • Check for Danger • Check for Response • Send for help • Clear the Airway • Check for Breathing • Start CPR chest compression • Apply Defibrillator. See chart page 26 2. If the patient is carrying an adrenaline autoinjector, it should be used at once. Let them administer the adrenaline autoinjector themselves, or ask them if they require assistance to do so.

3. Call 000 for an ambulance.

4. Keep patient in lying or sitting position. Observe and record pulse and breathing.

Unconscious If patient is unconscious, check for breathing and response, and prepare to give CPR if necessary.

ASTHMA ATTACKS WARNING Anyone having a SEVERE asthma attack needs URGENT medical treatment. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.

What to do Unconscious patient 1. Follow DRSABCD. Conscious patient 2. Help the patient into a comfortable sitting position.

Be calm and reassuring. Don’t leave the person alone. Help them to follow their action plan.

3. Give 4 puffs of a blue/grey

reliever. Use a spacer if available. Shake the reliever inhaler before each puff.

4. Give 1 puff at a time with 4 breaths after each puff.

5. Wait 4 minutes. If no improvement, give 4 more puffs.

6. If the person still cannot breathe normally call for an ambulance and say that someone is having an asthma attack.

7. Keep giving 4 puffs every 4 minutes (as above) until the ambulance arrives.

Where permitted under local State or Territory regulations, and if necessary use another person’s reliever inhaler, or use one from a first aid kit to assist a patient with a severe asthma attack.

If someone is having difficulty breathing, but has not previously had an asthma attack, assist in giving a reliever until an ambulance arrives.

BLEEDING For severe external bleeding: • wear gloves, if possible, to prevent infection • do not apply a tourniquet • if an object is embedded in or protruding from a wound apply pressure either side of the wound and place pads around it before bandaging • give nothing by mouth.

What to do Unconscious casualty 1. Follow DRSABCD. Conscious casualty 1. Follow DRSABCD. 2. Lie the casualty down and remove or cut their clothing to expose the wound.

3. Apply direct pressure over the wound using a pad or your hands (use gloves if available).

Instruct the casualty to do this if possible.

4. Squeeze the wound edges together if possible.

5. Raise and support the injured part above the level of the heart. Handle gently if you suspect a fracture.

6. Apply a pad over the wound if not already in place and secure by bandaging over the padded wound.

7. If bleeding is still not controlled, leave initial pad in place and apply a second pad and secure with a bandage.

8. Check circulation below wound.

9. Ensure an ambulance has been called.

SPRAINS & STRAINS It can be difficult to tell whether the injury is a fracture, dislocation, sprain or strain.

If in doubt, always treat as a fracture.

POISIONING SIGNS & SYMPTOMS Signs and symptoms depend on the nature of the poisons which may be ingested, inhaled, absorbed or injected into the body.

• Abdominal pain • Drowsiness • Burning pains from mouth to stomach• Difficulty breathing • Tight chest • Blurred vision • Odours on breath • Change of skin colour with blueness around the lips • Sudden collapse MANAGEMENT Unconscious patient 1. Follow DRSABCD. See chart page 26 2. Ensure call for ambulance has been made— triple zero (000).

3. Call fire brigade if atmosphere contaminated with smoke or gas..

Conscious patient 1. Follow DRSABCD. See chart page 26 2. Listen to patient give reassurance but not advice.

3. Try to determine type of poison taken.

4. Call 13 11 26 for Poisons Information Centre.

5. Send any vomit, containers and/or suicide notes with patient to hospital.

WARNING DO NOT induce vomiting unless advised to do so by Poisons Information Centre.

DO NOT give anything by mouth.

Wash substances off mouth and face with water.

Poisons Information Centre 131 126

25

SAFETY AT HOME

DRSABCD ACTION PLAN In an emergency call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance

D

DANGER

R

RESPONSE

S

SEND for help

A B C D

Ensure the are is safe for yourself, others and the patient

Check for response–ask name–squeeze shoulders No response Response Make comfortable

Check for injuries Monitor response Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance or ask another person to make the call

AIRWAY

Open mouth–if foreign material present Place in recovery position Clear airway with fingers Open airway by tilting head with chin lift

BREATHING

Check for breathing–look, listen, feel Not normal breathing Normal breathing Start CPR Place in recovery position Monitor breathing

CPR

Start CPR–30 chest compressions: 2 breaths Continue CPR until help arrives or patient recovers

DEFIBRILLATION

Apply defibrillator if available and follow voice prompts

Signs & symptoms Sprain • intense pain • restricted mobility • rapid development of swelling and bruising.

Strain • sharp, sudden pain in region of the injury • loss of power • muscle tenderness.

What to do 1. Follow DRSABCD. 2. Follow the RICE management plan: • REST the patient and the injured part.

• Apply ICEPACK (cold compress) wrapped in a wet cloth to the injury for 15 minutes every 2 hours for 24 hours, then for 15 minutes every 4 hours for 24 hours.

• Apply COMPRESSION elastic bandage firmly to extend well beyond the injury.

• ELEVATE the injured part.

3. Seek medical attention if no improvement.

CUTS & BRUISES • If the cut is severe, stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound. Use a pad made of any material until a sterile dressing is available.

• Raise and support the injured limb, taking particular care if you think a bone may be broken.

• Bandage the pad or dressing firmly to control bleeding until the ambulance arrives.

FIRST AID FOR CUTS If the wound is dirty, wash it in clean running water then dry it and the surrounding skin with a sterile dressing or a pad of clean non-fluffy material. Cover the cut completely with a sterile dressing held in place with a cotton bandage or adhesive plaster.

BURNS & SCALDS Any child who has received any kind of burn should be taken immediately to a doctor. Severe 26

SAFETY AT HOME

burns can lead to shock and major infection if not treated correctly.

Burns (scalds) can be caused by hot liquid, food, vapour or steam.

They are among the most serious, painful and long-term injuries. Hot drinks account for about 42 per cent of all child scald injuries, hot foods and oils about 13 per cent and hot water 45 per cent.

Beware the hot tap 80 per cent of all hot tap water scalds occur in the bathroom.

More than a third of these accidents are caused by hot water in the bathtub, with a further third happening when the hot tap is running. In most homes, the hot water is set on about 70ºC, a temperature which poses an extreme threat to youngsters. At 70ºC it takes less than half-a-second to cause a full skin thickness scald in tender skin. At 60ºC it takes 1 second. At 55ºC it takes 30 seconds.

And at 50ºC it takes five minutes before the child is scalded.

The ideal maximum, safe temperature for hot tap water is 50ºC. The maximum bathing temperature for young children is 38ºC. The first thing to do in an emergency • Get the person out of the water and flood the affected skin with cool water.

• Give first aid for burns and scalds (see below).

Burns may also be caused by contact with flame, hot objects or chemicals, by electrocution, radiated heat, frozen surfaces, friction or radiation. Barbecues, gas stoves and open fires are prime hazards and they should never be left unattended. If someone is burned on the face they could also have trouble breathing, although this may not happen immediately.

A person who has inhaled smoke or fumes should receive medical attention as soon as possible.

The first thing to do in an emergency • If a person’s clothes catch alight, stop them moving or running around. Movement

will fan the flames. Remember: stop, drop, roll, manage.

• Give first aid for burns and scalds (see below).

FIRST AID FOR BURNS AND SCALDS 1. Ensure it is safe to approach the patient.

2. Extinguish burning clothing – smother it with a blanket, jacket or use water. In the case of a scald, quickly remove wet clothing from the affected area.

3. Hold the burnt area under cold running water until the skin returns to normal temperature – do this for at least 20 minutes.

4. Remove jewellery and clothing from burnt area – leave it if stuck.

5. Cover the injury with a non-adherent burns dressing – if you don’t have one, use aluminium foil, plastic wrap or a wet clean dressing.

6. Seek medical aid urgently.

When to seek medical advice: In the case of a child being burned, you should always consult a doctor immediately.

Extensive burns are dangerous and may be fatal. For adults, you should seek medical aid if: • The burn is deep, even if the patient feels no pain.

• A superficial burn is larger than a 20-cent piece.

• The burn involves the airway, face, hands or genitals.

• You are unsure of the severity of the burn.

For more information visit www.stjohn.org.au

CHOKING MANAGING A CHOKING ADULT OR CHILD (OVER 1 YEAR) Signs & symptoms • Clutching the throat.

• Coughing, wheezing, gagging.

• Difficulty breathing, speaking, swallowing.

• Making a whistling or ‘crowing’ noise or no sound at all.

• Face, neck lips, ears, fingernails turning blue.

MANAGEMENT 1. Encourage adult or child to relax and cough to remove object.

2. Call triple zero (000) if coughing does not remove the blockage, or if patient is an infant.

3. Bend patient well forward and give 5 back blows: with heel of hand between the shoulder blades—checking if obstruction is relieved after each back blow.

4. If unsuccessful, give 5 chest thrusts: place one hand in the middle of patient’s back for support and heel of other hand in the CPR compression position and give 5 chest thrusts, slower but sharper than compressions.

Check if obstruction is relieved after each chest thrust.

5. If blockage does not clear: continue alternating 5 back blows with 5 chest thrusts until medical aid arrives.

If patient becomes unconscious: • call triple zero (000) for an ambulance, • remove visible obstruction from mouth • commence CPR

Find out more Facts about First Aid

PREPARING FOR EMERGENCIES Resuscitation can save a life, so it’s a good idea to learn first aid. St John Ambulance, Red Cross and a number of private first aid training companies run courses which also include information on resuscitation. Workcover can provide a list of accredited companies. Make a list of emergency numbers to keep near the telephone. Below are some suggestions for numbers to include. You can find the others in your local phone book.

Police / Fire / Ambulance • local police • Poisons Information Centre • Council • Children’s Hospital, family doctor • Health Nurse • neighbours • relatives.

27

SAFETY AT HOME

SAFE PLAY IN BACKYARDS Play is an essential part of growing up. Children learn and develop as they play. Providing a safe and creative play environment is the best way to help them grow.

Many childhood injuries happen in and around the home, especially in the backyard and garden.

Falls from play equipment cause most of the injuries in backyards.

There are Australian Standards for playground equipment and trampolines. Equipment manufactured and installed to these Standards can reduce the number and severity of play related injury.

It is important for parents to ask the question “Does it comply with the Australian Standard?” before purchasing backyard play equipment items for their children.

Look for the Australian Standard ‘tick’ logo.

HEIGHT OF PLAY EQUIPMENT Falls are the leading cause of injury in playgrounds. Australian Standards provide the maximum fall height of play equipment - the distance from which a child could fall to the ground. The recommended maximum fall height for any play equipment is: • 1m for children 0-3 years of age • 1.8m for children 3-5 years of age • 3m for children over 5 years of age Equipment with a fall height greater than 0.6m above ground level should have a soft surface (impact attenuating material) under and around it to cushion any falls and prevent the risk of head or other serious injuries.

SURFACING Asphalt and concrete are not a suitable surface underneath or around play equipment.

For play equipment in domestic backyards such as elevated cubby houses or forts, swings, slides, trampolines and rocking items, provide a soft surface under and around the equipment (impact area). Grass is suitable if well maintained, however can wear 28

quickly in high use areas such as under swings and at the end of a slide. Consider installing playground mulch in these areas.

The impact area should cover the entire falling space which is the area under and around the play equipment onto which a child is likely to fall. The guideline for backyards is: • 1.5m for 0-6 years • 2.5m for older children.

SWINGS • Ensure swing frames are securely anchored into the ground. It is recommended that surfacing such as mulch is used in the falling space of the swing.

• Swing seats should be made of a soft flexible plastic or rubber.

• Chain links can entrap and crush fingers. Look for a swing that uses a short link chain or chain covered with a plastic/ rubber sheath.

• Ensure the connections of the swing at the seat are not sharp or have protruding parts which could injure the child’s hand or catch clothing.

TRAMPOLINES Trampolines require active supervision. Parents and carers need to implement safety measures to

reduce the risk of injury.

• The trampoline should comply with Australian Standard AS 4989. Look for the Australian Standard ‘tick’ • Safety pads are installed adequately to cover the frame and springs.

• Netted trampolines are recommended as fall hazards have been minimised (pictured below) • Locate the trampoline on a flat, soft surface and secure it to the ground.

• Arrange a safety zone around the trampoline of 2.5m for open trampolines and 1.5m for enclosed trampolines.

• Make sure there is a clearance of 5 metres above the trampoline bed.

• Do not let children access the trampoline by using chairs, ladders or planks.

Safe use of trampolines: • Allow only one child at a time • Provide constant adult supervision.

• Older children need firm guidelines on proper use of the trampoline and skill development.

• Teach your child to jump in the centre of the mat and to focus their eyes on the trampoline to help to control bounce.

SAFETY AT HOME

• Teach your child to climb on and off the trampoline rather than jumping off.

• Regularly check the condition of the trampoline frame, springs and bed for tears, rust, detachment and general weakening of the structure.

CUBBY HOUSES A cubby house is great for imaginary play. When purchasing and/or installing a cubby house consider the following: • A cubby house set up at ground level reduces the risk of falls • The design and location of the cubby house should not allow children to climb onto the roof or surrounding structures • If the cubby house is elevated or has climbing equipment or a slide, then a falling space with soft surfacing is recommended • To avoid head entrapment, gaps between vertical rails should measure less than 89mm for metal or plastic

rails, or less than 75mm for timber rails • Ensure that there are no sharp edges or splinters • Do not use CCA or creosote treated timber WATER SAFETY Water play is fun and can be provided in a variety of ways.

• Supervise children at all times when they are in or around the water • Always stay within arm’s reach of your child when they are in water • Learn basic first aid and resuscitation • Keep pool gates closed at all times • A pool fence is required for portable pools that can hold more than 30cm of water • Cover garden ponds with wire mesh • Empty containers such as buckets and wading pools when not in use

SAFE BACKYARD PLAY Keep the backyard clear from rubbish and remove any trip hazards • Keep tools, equipment and chemicals locked away • Choose play equipment that has the Australian Standard ‘tick’ logo • Position play equipment in an area that is shaded, easily supervised and accessible • Ensure all play equipment and bikes are appropriate to a child’s age, size and developmental stage • Ensure play equipment is strong, sturdy and securely anchored.

• Secure any ropes top and bottom so they are not slack and cannot form a noose • Play equipment should not have sharp edges, splinters or protruding parts that could pierce skin, or tangle in a child’s hair or clothing

• Regularly check play equipment for wear and tear • Remove loose cords from children’s clothing so they don’t get caught in equipment • Supervise young children on and around play equipment at all times • Fence play areas off from driveways and garages/ carports • Ensure pool gates are selfclosing, self-locking and well maintained. Regularly inspect fence panels and gates and leave nothing nearby for a child to climb • Remove any plants that may harm or cause illness in children • Supervise animals near children at all times • Don’t leave lawn mowers and electrical equipment unattended

SAFETY WITH DOGS Dogs are wonderful pets however they are responsible for some serious injuries to young children.

• Always supervise children near dogs • Show children how to behave with dogs • Choose a dog breed suitable for children • Keep dog bowls out of reach FINAL REMINDER: • Separate play areas from driveways • Supervise children around vehicles • See if children are near the vehicle before you go

GAS BARBECUE SAFETY TIPS Remember to look before you cook.

Gas barbecues can be dangerous if not maintained properly. LP Gas is highly flammable and easily ignited — gas escaping from your barbecue can lead to explosions or fires. This brochure tells you how to maintain and use your gas barbecue safely including checking for gas leaks prior to cooking.

How to check your barbecue for leaks Check regularly for gas leaks to make sure your gas connections are tight. You can do this by using a squirt bottle or a brush to coat the gas connections and hoses with soapy water. You should pay special attention to the left hand thread connection between the gas cylinder and the appliance—it is the most common cause of gas leaks. Make sure it’s tight and in good condition.

If bubbles start forming, there is a leak. Turn off the gas at the cylinder.

Disconnect the left hand thread connection and check the faces are clean. Leaks occur due to damaged or missing O rings or rubber bull nosing, or where connections are not correctly tightened. Always take care when reconnecting. Turn the gas back 29

SAFETY AT HOME

on and test again with soapy water. If there are still bubbles forming, do not use the barbecue.

You will need to replace the hose and regulator assembly; contact a licensed gasfitter to do this.

Tips for maintaining your barbecue 1. Check your cylinder Safe, refilled cylinders are available from many outlets for exchange. When connecting a cylinder to your barbecue, check that the rubber O ring or rubber bull nosing, if fitted to your regulator and hose assembly, is present and in good condition.

2. Check ventilation Gas appliances need adequate ventilation. Never use a barbecue designed for outdoor use inside a caravan, tent, garage or house.

3. Close the cylinder

30

After you have finished using your barbecue you should always close the cylinder valve first before turning off the barbecue burners.

4. Clean your barbecue regularly.

Remove fat build-up.

Check www.esv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 652 563 for safety advice and servicing information.

SAFE IN THE SUN - A REMINDER When children spend time in the backyard, they often spend time in the sun. Children need to be protected from the sun. Too much sun during childhood can cause skin cancer as they get older. The younger any sunburn occurs, the greater the risk.

So, to stay safe in the sun: • Stay out of the sun during the hottest times of the day, in general between 10am and 3pm • Provide good quality shade in the backyard so that children can play out of the sun. This may be a verandah, a pergola, a large leafy tree or a children’s cubby.

• Children need clothing that gives them a natural protection from the sun. Hats, with a neck flap and a brim or visor, and long-sleeved shirts are good.

Cottons and lycras are good sun-protective materials.

• Use an SPF 30+ sunscreen on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun. Mild sunscreens are often better for young children with sensitive skin.

• Young babies have very sensitive skin and are best kept out of the sun until they are at least 12 months old.

SAFETY AT HOME

HOW SAFE IS YOUR POOL BARRIER?

How to check your pool or spa barrier with Matt Welsh

DROWNING IS ONE OF THE LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH FOR AUSTRALIAN CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE. Backyard swimming pools are the most common location where child drowning incidents occur.

Evidence suggests that a large number of these incidents are as a result of fencing that is faulty or non-compliant with Australian Standards.

SAFE GATES SAVE LIVES Visit kidsafevic.com.au to find out how

In the last 12 months have you checked to ensure that‌.

Y N

Children are closely supervised by an adult at all times around the pool/spa?

All gates and doors that lead into the pool area are self closing?

All gates and doors that lead into the pool area are self latching?

The pool gate is never propped open?

Your safety barrier is free of gaps, holes, or spaces that a child could try to get through?

The area surrounding your pool barrier is free of climbable objects (e.g. BBQs, tree stumps, chairs etc.)?

To complete a comprehensive home pool safety assessment and find out more information on pool fencing legislation and the responsibilities of pool owners, please visit kidsafevic.com.au

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FIRE SAFETY Kitchen and Cooking

KITCHEN AND COOKING

Cooking in the kitchen is the single largest cause of fire in the home. A fire in your kitchen can cause extensive damage.

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FIRE SAFETY

A fire extinguisher and fire blanket should be stored within easy reach, but away from the

Acooking fire extinguisher fire blanket should be stored within easy reach but away from the area. MFBand and CFA recommend that you only use a fire extinguisher or fire blanket cooking area.

MFB and CFA recommend that use a firesafely. extinguisher or fire blanket if you feel physically and mentally able to useyou thisonly equipment if you feel physically and mentally able to use this equipment safely.

Find out more about Kitchen Safety

Stay in in the the Stay kitchen and and kitchen never leave leave never cooking cooking unattended. unattended.

Play the Safe Mistake Zone Game

WATCH OUT!

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33

FIRE SAFETY

SMOKE ALARM

Smoke Alarm

A working smoke alarm provides you with early warning of a fire and gives you time to escape safely. It is law in Victoria to have at least one smoke alarm on each level of every home. Only working smoke alarms save lives.

Kitchen fires are responsible for a high level of person injury. Pay attention in the kitchen.

A working smoke alarm provides you with early warning of a fire and gives you time to escape safely. It is law in Victoria to have at least one smoke alarm on each level of every home. Only working smoke alarms save lives.

Install smoke smoke alarms Install alarms on the ceiling. on the ceiling.

All All Australian Australian Fire Fire Services Services recommend photoelectric recommend photoelectric smoke smoke alarms. alarms.

30 cm

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At least least 30cm 30cm from from the At walls. the walls.

Find out more about Smoke Alarms

34

Download more information about Smoke Alarms

FIRE SAFETY

Without a working smoke alarm in your home you are - 57% more likely to suffer property loss and damage - 26% more likely to suffer serious injury > four times more likely to die in a residential fire than people with Without a working smoke alarm in your home you are u 57% more likely to suffer property working smoke alarms. loss and damage u 26% more likely to suffer serious injury u four times more likely to die in a residential fire than people with working smoke alarms.

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EVERY EVERYTEN TENYEARS YEARS All smoke alarms All alarms including including those those connected connected to to mains mains electricity need need to to be be replaced. replaced. electricity

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MONTHLY MONTHLY Press the Press the test test button button on on the the smoke alarm every everymonth monthand and wait for beep, beep beep. wait for the the beep, beep beep.

35

FIRE SAFETY

HOME ESCAPE PLAN

Home Escape Plan

It is vital you know what to do if a fire occurs. Follow these rules to plan how you would escape a fire in your homeIt and practise withwhat whole family. is vital you know to do if a fire occurs. Follow these rules to plan how you would escape a fire in your home and practise with whole family.

IfIf it’s it’s safe, safe,close closedoors doorsto to slow slow down down the the spread spread of of fire fire and and smoke. smoke.

Getdown downlow lowand andstay stay Get out of the smoke. out of the smoke.

Alertother otherpeople peopleon onyour your Alert way out. way out.

GET OUT GET OUT Find out more about creating a Home Escape Plan

36

Download more information about a Home Escape Plan

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Make sure getfire out of your home in aninemergency.

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37

BUSHFIRE SAFETY

PETS AND BUSHFIRES Prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan for your pets a Decide whether you will keepyour pets with you or move them elsewhere during days of high fire risk. Include these details in your Bushfire Survival Plan. Remember, on Code Red days the safest place to be is away from highrisk bushfire areas. a If you choose to keep your pets with you, it’s important to confine them early.

• Pets are safest inside a secure room, on a lead or in carriers.

• Make sure you have wet towels and woollen blankets available to cover and protect your pets.

• Make sure they have plenty of water to drink. a It is important that your pets are microchipped and wearing a collar identification tag at all times. Ensure all contact information is current and include an emergency contact outside your area that is linked to your pets’ records. The National Pet Register provides free identification for cats and dogs.

Visit petregister.com.au or call 1300 734 738. a Make a list of where you could house your pets if you decide to leave early. This may include boarding kennels, a

DO YOU HAVE A PLAN? If you live near bush, grassland or coastal areas, you need to develop a Bushfire Survival Plan that includes your pets. Whether pets are at home with you, relocated during high risk days or brought along on holidays, you need to plan and prepare for their safety as well as your family’s and your own.

38

relative/friend’s place or you may be able to keep them with you. a Discuss with neighbours how your pets might be protected in case you are not at home or cannot make it home during a bushfire. Keep in regular contact with your neighbours during the fire danger period to let them know your plans. a Have a bushfire relocation kit or your pets stored within easy reach so you are ready to leave early. a Practise how you will move your pets if you leave. a If you take your pets on holiday into a high-risk bushfire area, make sure you prepare for their safety, along with your family’s and your own, in the event of a bushfire.

Prepare a bushfire relocation kit for your pets Relocate your pets early on high fire danger days to a safer area.

If you plan to relocate your pets, move them to a safer area well before a bushfire threatens. If you do not have friends or family in safer areas who can care for your pet, consider a boarding facility. If you relocate with your pets, make sure they are secured with a collar and lead or confined in a carrier.

Make sure the carriers are clearly labelled with your contact details.

Your bushfire relocation kit for pets should include: food and water a bowl for each pet a second collar and lead a carrier for cats and smaller pets bedding and a woollen blanket a pet first aid kit – seek your vet’s advice a favourite toy any medications your pet is taking plus a written list of them your pet’s medical history including proof of vaccination your vet’s contact details.

BUSHFIRE SAFETY

PLAN AND PREPARE – YOUR BUSHFIRE PLAN You don’t have to live in the country to be at risk of fire. If you live near areas that have significant bush, forest, long grass, or coastal scrub, then you need to plan ahead for the fire season.

Not everyone thinks clearly in an emergency. A written, and preferably well-practised plan, will help you remember what needs to be done during a crisis. Use the Bushfire survival planning template – Leaving early (PDF) to help you write down your plan.

Why should I leave early?

Because fires can start and spread very quickly in some conditions, leaving early is by far the safest option for anyone in a high-risk bushfire area. Many people have died trying to leave their homes at the last minute.

Even a fire that is kilometres away could be at your door in minutes. In certain conditions, embers can travel many kilometres in front of a fire and a grassfire can travel faster than you can run. Wind changes are unpredictable and can rapidly change the direction or size of a fire.

Driving in a bushfire is extremely dangerous, and potentially life threatening. A drive that would normally take five minutes could take two hours. Road closures, traffic jams, collisions, smoke, fallen trees and embers are all real possibilities.

In a bushfire, people may be confused, disoriented and physically or psychologically stressed.

In these conditions, making good decisions becomes very difficult.

What leaving early means Leaving early means being away from high-risk areas before there are any signs of fire.

In other words, leaving early is a precaution you take just in case there is a fire – because in some conditions, any fire that starts is likely to be uncontrollable.

Leaving early does not mean waiting for a warning or a siren. It does not mean waiting to see or smell smoke. And it certainly does not mean waiting for a knock on the door.

Defending Your Property Planning to stay and defend is a big decision. Most homes in highrisk bushfire areas are not defendable on Code Red days. The Defending your property page can help you decide whether or not you are capable of defending your property – and tells you about the risks and preparations involved.

How to plan Just as every family or household is unique, every fire plan will be different. There are many ways you can go about your planning – but the information and templates in the Fire Ready Kit and on this website, are designed to put you on the right track.

At an absolute minimum, talk

through the ten decisions below with your household. Review these points before each fire season and don’t put it off until later: 1. Which Fire Danger Rating is your trigger to leave?

2. Will you leave early that morning or the night before?

3. Where will you go?

4. What route will you take – and what is your alternative in the event that a fire is already in the area?

5. What will you take with you?

6. What do you need to organise for your pets or livestock?

7. Who do you need to keep informed of your movements?

8. Is there anyone outside your household who you need to help or check up on?

9. How will you stay informed about warnings and updates?

10. What will you do if there is a fire in the area and you cannot leave?

For more information visit mfb.vic.gov.au or cfa.vic.gov.au

Find out more about a Home Fire Safety checklist

39

FLOOD / STORM / TSUNAMI & QUAKE SAFETY FLOODSAFE Victoria has many flood-prone communities with thousands of homes, properties and businesses at risk of flooding. Floods cause more damage per year in terms of dollars and lives lost than any other natural hazard in Australia. Flooding can happen at any time of the year.

If you live in, work in or visit areas on low-lying land, close to creeks or rivers, or near major stormwater drains you may be at risk of flooding.

A well prepared community can reduce the impact of flooding by up to 80%.

People who are prepared are more likely to respond to floods appropriately and safely.

TYPES OF FLOODING Riverine flooding In riverine flooding, relatively high water levels overflow above the banks of a stream or river.

Depending on the local landscape, some floods may pass quickly, while others will move slowly down the river, sometimes lasting for several months. As the water moves downstream during floods, this may cause flooding in areas where it is not raining.

Flash flooding Flash flooding is caused by heavy rain over a short period of time and is generally defined as developing in six hours or less from rainfall to the onset of flooding.

Overland flooding Overland flooding is a type of flash flooding caused by a large amount of rain falling in a small area, causing storm water drains to overload.

Weather Warnings Flood Watches and Flood Warnings are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) to tell people about possible flooding.

40

Flood Watches mean there is there is a developing weather pattern that might cause floods in one or two days.

Flood Warnings mean flooding is about to happen or is already happening.

Flood Warnings are classified into Minor, Moderate and Major depending on the expected size and impact of the flood.

SES will provide information about how the floodwater might affect people and properties.

Severe Weather Warnings or Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are issued when heavy rain fall that could lead to flash flooding is expected. Flash flooding happens quickly. There may be little or no warning. The arrival time and depth of a flash flood can not usually be predicted.

Remember that you may not receive any official warning. If you think you are at risk, do not wait for an official warning to act.

Emergency Alert During floods, SES may provide an alert through the National Emergency Alert Telephone Warning System. All Emergency Services can use Emergency Alert to warn communities about dangerous situations by voice message to landline telephones or text message to mobile phones.

If you receive an Emergency Alert you should pay attention and act accordingly.

Prepare an Emergency Plan Flooding can happen at any time, with little warning. People who have planned and prepared for emergencies can help to reduce the impact of emergencies on their homes and families and recover faster.

Your emergency plan should include: • Emergencies that might affect you • How they might affect you • What you will do before, during and after an emergency

• Where you will go if you evacuate and the safest route to get there • A list of contact numbers you may need FLOODSAFE The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is the control agency for flooding in Victoria, which means that we are responsible for planning for floods, and for managing flood response if they do occur.

Be prepared Victoria has a long history of flooding, and is home to many floodprone communities. Floods cost Victorians more than $460 million every year, and can cause significant damage to homes, businesses and community infrastructure.

We’ve put together some important information that can help you learn more about what you can do to prepare your home for flooding.

You can use the sub-navigation or click on one of the questions below to start preparing now.

HOW CAN I PREPARE MY HOME FOR FLOODS Emergency Plans and Kits Even though it’s easy to think that disasters won’t happen to you, emergency situations can happen anywhere, at any time. It’s important to have a plan, and to know what to do in an emergency.

Experience shows that those who plan and prepare for emergencies can reduce the impact of the emergency, and can recover quicker afterwards.

Taking the time to think about emergencies and making a plan helps you to think clearly, have a greater sense of control, and make better decisions when an emergency occurs.

Emergency Plans Creating an Emergency Plan takes very little time and may help save your life or property during an emergency.

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emergency information. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers and website addresses handy, and know how to tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.

Where will I meet my family if we are separated?

Determine a safe meeting place in case you are separated, and make sure your family members, friends and neighbours are aware of the location.

What if I have special needs?

If you have special needs, you need to think carefully about your plan. If you have a carer or council support, ask them how to help you prepare or check over your plan.

Start by thinking about: • Whether you will need help to leave your home • Having a pre-arranged safer place to stay • Whether you will need to take any special equipment with you • Whether you will need an

for pets If an emergency occurs, add the following items to your emergency kit: • Important documents such as passports, birth certificates and insurance papers • Mobile phone and charger • Strong boots or shoes • Medications and prescriptions

STORMSAFE “The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is the control agency for storms in Victoria, which means that we are responsible for planning for storms and for managing storm response if they do occur.

It’s important to be aware of the dangers of severe weather and learn some simple, useful ways you can take responsibility for your own safety and that of your property.”

Things to think about when creating your Emergency Plan:

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Who should I include in my plan?

Consider all members of your household including pets, regular visitors and people who may stay with you part-time.

What emergencies could affect me?

Think about where your property is located and the way it looks.

Think broadly about the kinds of emergencies that could impact you. Don’t fall into the trap of focussing on one emergency at the expense of others.

Watch a Home Emergency Kit demonstration

Where will I go if I need to evacuate?

Make sure that you and your family all understand when and how you will leave, and where you will go. Think about the safest routes, 41

Clubs across Victoria support youth in their local communities

ADCO are proud to provide support to the Victoria Police Legacy and the Child Safety handbook.

Grovedale Children’s Hub

Police Operational Tactics Training Facility, Craigieburn

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Reservoir Library and Learning Centre

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T 03 9832 1400

FLOOD, STORM, TSUNAMI & QUAKE SAFETY

and what you will need to take with you if you go.

Where will I find emergency information and warnings?

Know where to go for official emergency information. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers and website addresses handy, and know how to tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.

Where will I meet my family if we are separated?

Determine a safe meeting place in case you are separated, and make sure your family members, friends and neighbours are aware of the location.

What if I have special needs?

If you have special needs, you need to think carefully about your plan. If you have a carer or council support, ask them how to help you prepare or check over your plan.

Start by thinking about: • Whether you will need help to leave your home • Having a pre-arranged safer place to stay • Whether you will need to take any special equipment with you • Whether you will need an alternative power source to run life-support equipment Even if you only need help from a neighbour, talking about it now will ease your mind and ensure everything is in place before an emergency occurs.

Red Cross Australia has excellent emergency planning advice for people with a disability and their carers.

Emergency Kits Your home emergency kit should include everything that you and your family need to cope in an emergency. We have created a simple flyer that can help you put together your own emergency kit.

A basic home emergency kit should contain: • Portable radio with spare batteries • Torch with spare batteries • First Aid kit

• A copy of your emergency plan • Bottled water • Enough non-perishable food for three days • Rubber gloves • Food and special requirements for pets If an emergency occurs, add the following items to your emergency kit: • Important documents such as passports, birth certificates and insurance papers • Mobile phone and charger • Strong boots or shoes • Medications and prescriptions What to do in a storm There are a number of things that you can do to make sure you and your property stay safe during storms. Remember, for storm emergency assistance from the SES call 132 500. For life-threatening emergencies call triple-zero (000).

What to do before the storm Ensure you do the following before a severe storm arrives: • Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured.

• If it is safe to do so, check gutters, downpipes and drains are not blocked.

• Park your car undercover and away from trees.

What to do during the storm Ensure you do the following during a severe storm: • Stay indoors and away from windows.

• If outdoors, shelter away from drains, gutters, creeks and waterways.

• Be prepared for power outages.

Floodwater is dangerous – never drive, walk or ride through floodwater.

• Floodwater is toxic – never play or swim in floodwater.

What to do after the storm Ensure you do the following after a severe storm: • Check your home and property for damage.

• Keep clear of damaged buildings, powerlines and trees.•

Be aware of road hazards such as floodwater, debris and damaged roads or bridges.

• Do not drive through affected areas unless it is necessary.

TSUNAMISAFE The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is the control agency for tsunami in Victoria, which means that we are responsible for planning for tsunami and for managing response if a tsunami does occur.

A tsunami is a series of waves generated by any of the following: • Vertical movement of the sea floor after a large earthquake • Submarine or coastal eruptions Meteor impacts • Submarine or coastal landslides Even though the overall tsunami risk to Victoria is lower than many other parts of the world, a tsunami may still impact the Victorian coast. The largest tsunami to affect Victoria in recent times occurred in May 1960 after a 9.5 magnitude earthquake in Chile.”

Visit VICSES for more safety information

QUAKESAFE The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is the control agency for earthquakes in Victoria, which means that we are responsible for planning for earthquakes and for managing responses if an earthquake does occur.

An earthquake is the shaking and vibration at the surface of the Earth caused by underground movement along a fault plane, or by volcanic activity.

Unlike other countries such as Japan, New Zealand and Indonesia, Australia does not lie in close proximity to a tectonic plate boundary where large earthquakes can occur. However, communities in Australia can still experience damaging and deadly earthquakes. The largest earthquake to affect Australia in recent times was the Newcastle earthquake in 1989, which killed 13 people and injured 160.” for more information visit ses.vic. gov.au 43

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OUTDOOR SAFETY PLAYGROUND SAFETY • Children using playground equipment can experience many health, social and cognitive benefits.

• Although children sometimes fall from playground equipment, you can reduce the risk of injury by keeping an eye your children, encouraging the use of age-appropriate equipment and allowing them to explore creative but safe ways to move.

• Maintain a soft surface under and around all play equipment to a depth of 300mm.

Play is an important part of a child’s development. Playing outside in the fresh air can be fun and adventurous, particularly when there are playmates.

However, many Australian children are less active than they should be.

Create safe play areas for children – separate play areas from driveways and roads.

Young children must be within eyesight of an adult at all times while outdoors. The backyard or local playground provides lots of scope to run, climb, swing, explore and play imaginary games. With careful planning however, play environments can be challenging and safe for children.

Playground benefits for children Being outdoors encourages all types of free play and helps children understand their environment. Playgrounds provide children with a range of experiences and opportunities including: • being physically active • being challenged and taking risks • socialising with friends • learning to cooperate • using their imagination

• playing independently.

A well-designed playground will stimulate a child’s imagination and encourage them to explore new dimensions to play.

Playground injuries can be avoided Almost three-quarters (70 per cent) of injuries in playgrounds are the result of falls. Most playground injuries are minor, such as scratches or bruises.

However, sometimes, playground injuries result in fractures. Other rare but serious injuries include spinal and head injuries.

Climbing can be fun but the high drops might increase the risk of injury. Given their own time and space, most children will safely and gradually increase the distance they can climb. To help make landings safer, you can check to see if the ground beneath the equipment is made of loosely filled materials such as mulch or sand, rather than harder materials.

With well-thought-out planning, play environments can be made

safe for children and injuries can be avoided.

Tips for protecting your child’s safety To protect children, it is important to: • Plan ahead for active time and aim to get children outdoors as often as possible in safe environments.

• Limit their play to equipment appropriate for their age and abilities.

• Supervise them at all times.

• Be a role model of active but sensible play and encourage them how to use the equipment creatively, but safely.

• Make sure that the children drink enough fluids. Provide water to enable children to rehydrate after playing, or if it is particularly hot, during play.

• Modify play for a sick or injured child if they are well enough to express an interest.

• Place less emphasis on competing and more on creativity, socialising, having fun and participation.

Learn more about Playground Safety

Download the Better Health Channel – Health Information and Services app

45

WHEN TO SEE A SPECIALIST PAEDIATRIC DENTIST Our dentists recommend a paediatric specialist if your child has:

At Smile Solutions we focus on the growth, development and treatment of children’s teeth as well as creating an enjoyable experience for your child.

Child Dental Benefits Scheme available

Dr Charmaine Hall BDSc (Melb), DClinDent (Melb), MRACDS (Paed) Board Registered Specialist Paediatric Dentist

ORTHODONTICS TOOTH FAIRY Prepare your child for their visit to the dentist by going to toothfairy.com.au. To watch our tooth fairy video and play fun games

When it comes to your child’s dental and jaw development, we provide you with advice and care from registered specialist orthodontists and a registered specialist paediatric dentist.

The Australian Society of Orthodontics recommends a first assessment by a registered specialist orthodontist at age six or seven. Treatment is aimed at dealing with functional problems that immediately threaten the health of teeth.

A proactive approach may eliminate or simplify any later need for orthodontic braces.

13 13 96 smilesolutions.com.au

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OUTDOOR SAFETY

• With the exception of the winter months, protect your child from the sun with appropriate clothes, a cap and sunscreen.

Playground equipment at home Safety suggestions for your backyard playground include: • Any raised platform should be made secure by a guard or handrail.

• Cover all hooks, nails or bolts.

• Rubber surfaces provide better grip than metal or wood.

• Check the equipment regularly for signs of wear and tear.

• Use mulch, river sand or other soft materials (such as rubberised surfacing) underneath the play equipment to a depth of 300 mm to offer a softer landing in case of falls.

• Consider less risky play equipment, such as a sandpit.

Safety on trampolines Trampolines can be amazing for children’s balance, coordination and fitness. Hundreds of Australian children are taken to hospital every year for trampoline-related injuries, such as cuts, sprains and fractures.

To minimise the risk of injuries from trampolines, it is important that children are supervised by an adult while playing on a trampoline.

Safety guidelines include: • Supervise – watch children at all times, and take extra care with younger children as they are more prone to serious injury.

• Regularly check the mat and net don’t have holes, springs are intact and securely attached at both ends, frames are not bent, leg braces are locked • Hazard-free surrounds – make sure the area around the trampoline is free from hazards like fences or garden furniture and there is an overhead clearance to avoid objects like trees and wires.

• Safety padding – always use safety padding on the frame. Cover the springs with

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padded mats. When buying a trampoline, look for one that meets Australian Standard AS4989-2003, a voluntary standard that requires the frame to have padding.

Trampolines are not suitable for children under six years of age. Consider the trampoline as sports equipment, not a toy.

Make sure the trampoline is in good order and replace worn parts promptly. If the trampoline is outside and exposed to sun and rain, check regularly for signs of rusting and other damage.

Sink the trampoline into the ground for greater stability; this also provides a lower fall height.

Drinking or eating while bouncing should not be allowed because of the possibility of choking on food.

Bare feet provide better grip.

Make sure there is only one child at a time on the trampoline.

Encourage and remind the child to jump in the centre, not near the sides.

Teach the child to get on and off the trampoline slowly and safely.

Clear the area around the trampoline of any obstacles, toys and debris.

Local council playgrounds Equipment in a public playground generally caters for children of all ages. Your child might be at risk of injury from a piece of equipment designed for older children. Safety tips include: • Make sure your child only uses equipment that is appropriate for their age, strength and coordination.

• Remind your child to be aware of other children playing, particularly near swings or other moving pieces of equipment.

• Contact your local council if the equipment needs repair or maintenance work.

First aid advice Emergency medical treatment for young children isn’t always the same as for adults, which is why all parents should ideally take a course in paediatric (child) first aid. The Royal Children’s Hospital Safety Centre in Melbourne facilitates first aid courses for the public. The six-hour Paediatric First Aid course is particularly helpful for parents, grandparents, nannies, sports coaches and childcare providers.

You can also contact the Safety Centre Telephone Advisory Line on (03) 9345 5085 for advice on a particular safety issue.

Never hesitate to call an ambulance if your child is injured.

Throughout Australia, the emergency number to dial is triple zero (000).

Where to get help • In an emergency, dial triple zero (000) to call an ambulance • Your doctor • Emergcare (for first aid course) Tel. (03) 9304 1622 • Local council • Safety Centre, Royal Children’s Hospital Tel. (03) 9345 5085 • Sports medicine Australia – Smartplay Tel. (03) 9674 8777 • Playgrounds and Recreation Association of Victoria Tel. (03) 9412 4013 • The Royal Children’s Hospital Kids Health Info Tel. (03) 9345 6429 Things to remember • Children using playground equipment can experience many health, social and cognitive benefits.

• Although children sometimes fall from playground equipment, you can reduce the risk of injury by keeping an eye your children, encouraging the use of age-appropriate equipment and allowing them to explore creative but safe ways to move.

• Maintain a soft surface under and around all play equipment to a depth of 300mm.

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OUTDOOR SAFETY

KIDS ON FARMS Tips to help keep kidssafe on farms environment. Dangers come especially from farm machinery, chemicals, water and animals.

PLAY SAFETY Farms provide a wonderful environment for children to grown up in and to visit.

However, they are working environments and there can be many dangers and hazards for children. These safety tips are aimed at reducing injuries so that farms continue to be great places to live, learn and have fun.

For younger children • Create a safe, secure, supervised play area with self closing gates for younger children away from farm activities. These are also useful for visiting children who may not be aware of farm hazards.

• Ensure family members and visitors are aware of the safe play area and keep gates closed at all times.

• Teach children the difference between safe play areas and work areas.

• Separate driveways and turning circles from home and play areas.

For older children • Establish and reinforce safety rules for such as ‘out of bounds’ areas.

• Ensure they let adults know where they are going on the farm.

• Teach children the difference between safe play areas and work areas.

WATER SAFETY Farms have many water areas and these can be very hazardous to children.

Tragically drowning is the main cause of deaths for children on farms - most occurring in dams.

• Reduce any access for children to dams and waterways.

• Ensure wells, sheep dips, tanks, troughs and any containers are covered.

• Check dams and creeks for change in conditions such as higher water levels and debris.

• Teach children basic water awareness and safety skills.

• Adults on farms should have current first aid training.

• Place CPR charts around the home and working areas.

WHERE CAN I PLAY?

Australian Football is the sport for everyone.

Whether you are new to the game, want to play socially or hope to become an elite AFL star, you can find a version of the game that's right for you.

To find a club, league or association near you visit: aflvic.com.au

48

VEHICLE SAFETY Vehicles and machinery are an essential part of farm life. Unfortunately they are also a leading cause of injury.

• Children should not ride on tractors or in the back of utes.

• Children should not ride quad bikes or be carried as passengers on quad bikes.

• Always supervise children when vehicles are being moved. Hold hands with young children.

• Ensure all children are appropriately and correctly restrained when travelling in vehicles on the farm.

• Take keys out of vehicles and machinery when not in use and put out of reach of children.

• Always ensure children wear helmets and other protective equipment when riding bikes.

• Check that the bike is suited to the child’s size and ability.

SAFETY AROUND ANIMALS It is important to remember that all animals can be unpredictable even those we keep as pets.

Children should be encouraged to respect animals and learn how to care and interact safely with them.

• Ensure that all animal pens and stockyards are inaccessible to young children.

• Match farm jobs involving animals to your children’s age and development.

• When riding a horse, children should wear an approved helmet that fits correctly.

• Select the horse carefully and always supervise.

OTHER FARM HAZARDS • Always store hazardous products such as poisons, chemicals and pesticides in line with regulations or manufacturer’s instructions.

• Choose appropriate child proof containers to store chemicals and poisons. Do not use soft drink bottles or other containers that may be mistaken by children.

• Ensure power tools and other

Download more information about Kids Safety on Farms

OUTDOOR SAFETY

without adult supervision. Pool fencing requirements, including appropriate ‘child resistant’ gates and latches, can be used as a guide in planning a safe play area.

For more information visit www. keepwatch.com.au for Fact Sheet No. 6 Child Safe Play Areas.

dangerous machinery are unplugged when not in use and stored safely away from children.

• Some farm machinery is very loud which can damage ears.

Consider the location of the equipment and keep protective safety equipment in easy to reach places.

• Ensure firearms are stored appropriately and correctly as specified by law at all times.

• Provide adequate shade coverage to protect young children from the sun.

SAFETY TIPS FOR KEEPING KIDS SAFE ON FARMS • Create a safe fenced play area for children away from farm activities.

• Always supervise children on the farm particularly around water and animals.

• Keep dangerous goods locked safely away.

• Always use appropriate restraints for all children when travelling in vehicles.

• Be a good role model for children in vehicles and around the farm.

• Establish and enforce farm safe rules.

For more information you can also visit: mynrma.com.au farmsafe.org.au royallifesaving.com.au

FARM WATER SAFETY Q. Where do toddlers commonly drown on farms?

A. The most common location for toddler drowning deaths on farms are dams.

However, the farm environment has a range of other water locations including dams, troughs, irrigation channels, water tanks and swimming pools.

Q. How many children drown on farms?

A. On average 4 children under the age of five drown in farm dams every year and there are approximately 3 hospitalisations for every drowning death.

Q. How do I keep my child safe?

A. In rural areas, it is not always feasible to fence off large water bodies such as lakes or dams, so Royal Life Saving suggests parents create a Child Safe Play Area. Royal Life Saving has also developed the Keep Watch @ The Farm program which provides information and useful resources to improve parent/carer awareness of drowning prevention strategies on farms.

Q. What is a Child Safe Play Area?

A. A Child Safe Play Area is a carefully planned, designated location which is securely fenced and helps to prevent a young child from entering the farm

Q. Why do parents leave their children unsupervised?

A. There are many reasons why a parent’s attention can be diverted from their child. Busy lifestyles, phone calls, visitors, preparing meals and other siblings are just some of the things which demand attention. The Keep Watch program advocates for supervision to be supported by fenced Child Safe Play Areas, water awareness and resuscitation skills.. been educating Australian parents and carers on how to keep their children safe when in, on, or around the water in a variety of locations.

We are now tailoring the approach to locations with specific hazards – like those found on a farm.

Keep Watch @ The Farm is aimed at preventing children under 5 years of age from drowning by getting parents and carers to undertake four simple actions:

Find out more about Farm Water Safety

Download more information about Farm Water Safety

Supervise Ensure that when your child is in, on, or around water they are within arms’ reach and have your undivided attention at all times. This may include holding their hand when walking near a dam.

Restrict Access Ensure that where possible there is a barrier between your child and the water. This may be an effective and well maintained pool fence or a child safe play area on a farm.

Water Awareness Enrol your child in a water familiarisation class such as Royal Life Saving’s Swim and Survive Wonder Program. When new people arrive at your farm, 49

OUTDOOR SAFETY

ensure that they are made aware of the hazards and risks the farm environment may pose to children.

Resuscitate Be prepared to respond in an emergency. Enrol in a resuscitation course and update your skills annually.

If required, any response is better than nothing. Just push and blow, and as soon as possible call ‘000’.

Keep Watch @ The Farm On average 4 children under the age of five drown in farm dams every year and there are approximately, 3 hospitalisations for every drowning death.

The farm environment has a range of water locations such as dams, troughs, irrigation channels, water tanks and swimming pools. Easy access to water and a lack of direct adult supervision by parents or carers have been the main factors in the farm drowning deaths of children.

BEACH SAFETY Q. How safe are Australian beaches?

A. Going to the beach is a popular pastime in Australia, but it can be a dangerous place. On average, one person has drowned every week at an Australian beach for the last 5 years and on average 10 people are rescued every day. International tourists and those who are unfamiliar with the beach are at a greater risk of drowning.

Q. What hazards are there at Australian beaches?

A. There are a number of dangers at Australian beaches. These include: rips, tidal and runback currents, waves, drop offs, sand bars, marine stingers, submerged objects, other people and surf craft.

Q. What is a rip and how do I recognise one?

A. Rips are one of the most common hazards at Australian beaches. Rips are fast-flowing 50

currents where the water flows out in the direction that causes the least resistance. Recognising a rip is the first step in being able to avoid being caught in one. To recognise a rip look for discoloured water, brown in colour due to sand being stirred from the bottom, foam on the surface that extends beyond the breaking waves, a ripple appearance when the water around is generally calm, debris floating with the current and waves breaking larger and further out on both sides of the rip.

Q. What do I do if I’m caught in a rip?

A. If you are caught in a rip, do not panic, remain calm. If you are a poor or non-swimmer then you should go with the rip, float and wave and wait to be rescued. If you are a weak or tired swimmer then you should swim parallel to the shore and then return to shore when conditions allow. If you are a strong swimmer you should either swim parallel to the shore or angle your body diagonally across the current, returning to the shore through the breaking waves.

Q. What can I do to keep myself safe at the beach?

A. When at the beach you should always swim between the red and yellow flags. Never swim at unpatrolled beaches and never swim alone. If you do get into trouble, don’t panic, float and wave and wait to be rescued. Be aware of your limitations and evaluate your skills and fitness at a safe environment such as a public pool prior to swimming at the beach, to make sure you’re physically capable of swimming in the surf. Refrain from drinking alcohol before swimming and never swim at night.

Q. I’m worried about being stung at the beach, what do I do?

A. To keep yourself safe, wearing a stinger suit (neck to ankles) or a rash vest, swim in areas which are surrounded by stinger nets, heed warning signs, swim at patrolled

beaches, use caution entering the water, avoid swimming at beaches during stinger season if possible (usually September to May) and supervise children as they are more vulnerable to stings.

For more information visit www.royallifesaving.com.au

Download Free SunSmart App

SUN SAFETY Suncreen Cancer Council Victoria recommends using SPF30 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. However sunscreen alone will not provide adequate protection against overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Cancer Council recommends five steps to protect against sun damage during the daily sun protection times (when the UV level is 3 and above): 1. Slip on sun-protective clothing.

2. Slop on SPF30 or higher sunscreen – make sure it is broad-spectrum and water-resistant. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and re-apply every two hours.

3. Slap on a hat – that protects your face, head, neck and ears.

4. Seek shade.

5. Slide on sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards.

UV levels are most intense during the middle of the day.

Check the daily sun protection times, available: • on the free SunSmart app • online at sunsmart.com.au or

How to use the SunSmart app

Find out more about Beach Safety

Download more information about Beach Safety

OUTDOOR SAFETY

bom.gov.au/weather/uv • in the weather section of newspapers • as a free website widget.

The sun protection times show when the UV Index is forecast to be 3 or above.

What is SPF? Sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 4 and above are listed on the Australian Register of the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Products can only be listed on the register if they comply with the Australian/New Zealand Standard for sunscreen products (AS/NZS 2604:2012). The highest SPF for sunscreen available in Australia is SPF50+. The SPF number is only a guide to a sunscreen’s protection.

How long a person will take to burn depends on the time of day, time of year, amount of UV reflection, how cloudy it is and their skin type.

In laboratory conditions, when used as directed, SPF30 sunscreen filters 96.7% of UV radiation and SPF50 filters 98%.

Both provide excellent protection if they are applied properly.

For more information visit sunsmart.com.au

BOATING SAFETY Lifejackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on any recreational vessel. And in many situations you and your passengers are required by law to wear one. Penalties apply, and Maritime Safety Victoria and the Water Police will be cracking down this summer.

We all enjoy a great day out on the water and in Victoria boating is massive with more than 170,000 registered boats, but with boating comes some risks.

No one ever expects that it will happen to them but occasionally out on the water things can go wrong.

That’s when you’ll need one of these.

This is a lifejacket and as the name suggests it can save your life.

It’s a fact that’s backed up by some pretty grim statistics.

In 2013 ten people lost their lives while boating in Victorian waters and none of them were wearing lifejackets at the time.

Maritime Safety Victoria is leading the push to turn those numbers around by encouraging boaters to know and understand the lifejacket regulations.

There are a range of circumstances where boaters are required to wear lifejackets while boating on Victoria’s waterways.

The main category is for power vessels that are less than 4.8 m. In that circumstance, all people on board must wear a lifejacket while the vessel is underway.

A vessel is considered to be underway unless anchored or tied up to the shore.

A drifting boat is definitely underway and lifejackets need to be on.

This rule also applies to kayaks and canoes, off the beach yachts plus high performance PWCs. The simple reason being that you are more likely to end up in the water while operating a craft like this.

There is also a one size fits all rule that applies kids.

With kids, all children under 10 need to be wearing a lifejacket.

My suggestion is that you actually take the kids into a shop and get them properly fitted. They have a crotch strap so that if they do fall in, the jacket isn’t going to go over their head Now, even if your boat is bigger than 4.8 m, here in Victoria, there are times when you will still need to wear your lifejacket by law.

Times of heightened risk, Andrew, and they could include times when you are crossing a bar way, times when there are weather warnings in place, times of reduced visibility and also times when you are operating your vessel by yourself.

Operating alone is most certainly a heightened risk.

It’s not only law but a very good idea to be wearing your lifejacket

so if you get separated from your vessel you’ve got a much better chance of survival.

The rule of heightened risk applies to powered vessels up to 12 metres in length as well as yachts.

It means that you need to be wearing your lifejacket if you are alone onboard the vessel, in the dark or reduced visibility, if a severe weather warning has been issued and whenever crossing an ocean bar or in a designated hazardous area.

By law these are the times when your life jackets is required to be worn but as more and more Victorian boaters are discovering, wearing a lifejacket makes good sense every time you head out on the water.

We know now that the types of lifejackets that are available are comfortable, you’re unencumbered, they are relatively cheap in the picture of fishing, I’d be wearing one all the time.

And like seatbelts, you know, no one wanted to wear a seat belt when they were first introduced.

But now a lot of guys I know who’ve been fishing for many years but only in the last 5 or 10 years have been wearing jackets, they are comfortable in them now, they’re used to them, they’re happy to wear them.

So remember wear your lifejacket or others wear the consequences.

For more information visit: wearalifejacket.vic.gov.au

Find out more about Boat Safety

51

HEALTH & SAFETY CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING MENTAL HEALTH DIFFICULTIES Mental health difficulties affect approximately 14 per cent, or one in seven, of Australian children.

Most people will experience mental health diffi culties at some point in their life, including children. It’s normal to go through a period of diffi culty and then improve. At these times, children will benefi t from support from the important adults in their lives.

But, sometimes, mental health difficulties in children can be ongoing and can interfere with many aspects of their life.

Mental health difficulties affect children’s emotions and behaviour, and can cause concern for the child, parents and carers, and also the child’s school. Other terms for mental health diffi culties include mental health problems and emotional/behavioural problems. In some cases when diffi culties are persistent and/or severe they may be diagnosed as a ‘mental disorder’ by a mentalhealth professional.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression are examples of common mental health difficulties in primary school-aged children.

Diagnosis is based on established international criteria that defi ne specific sets of symptoms and behaviours for each disorder. For a diagnosis to be made, the symptoms must be severe enough to cause distress and interfere with the child’s ability to get on with everyday activities and enjoy life.

Because mental health difficulties can place enormous stress on children and families, professional help can be a useful aid. However, children with mental health difficulties often do not receive appropriate professional support 52

for a number of reasons, such as parents not knowing where to go for help. One of the major aims of KidsMatter Primary is to make information about children’s mental health and ways to get help available to parents, carers and school staff so that children experiencing mental health diffi culties can receive appropriate treatment.

Identifying children’s mental health diffi culties early and providing helpful professional support can make a significant difference to children’s lives. It can help to resolve mental health difficulties before they become worse, improving the quality of life for children and their families.

Early recognition and effective responses are important and provides children with skills for

positive coping that have lifelong benefi ts for their mental health and wellbeing. The earlier in life difficulties are addressed, the better chance a child has at reducing the impact on their long-term mental health and wellbeing.

RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH One way to understand mental health in children is through risk and protective factors.

A number of specifi c factors have been identifi ed through research that increase the risk of children experiencing poor mental health. Other factors have been identifi ed as having a protective effect. Protective factors act to strengthen children’s mental health and wellbeing, making

Find out more about Children’s Mental Health

Learn how Mental Health affects children

WHAT KINDS OF MENTAL HEALTH DIFFICULTIES DO CHILDREN EXPERIENCE? Children’s mental health difficulties are generally classifi ed as being one of two types: ‘internalising’ and ‘externalising’. Children with internalising diffi culties show behaviours that are inhibited and over-controlled. They may have a nervous or anxious temperament and be worried, fearful and/or withdrawn.

Children with externalising diffi culties show behaviours that are undercontrolled. They may have a more challenging temperament, shown in impulsive or reactive behaviour.

Sometimes this pattern can lead to diffi culties with attention, aggression or oppositional behaviour.

Externalising behaviours cause diffi culties for others as well as for the children themselves. It is not uncommon for children to show behaviours associated with both internalising and externalising patterns of behaviour. The typical features associated with each pattern are summarised below.

Features associated with children’s ‘internalising’ difficulties include: • nervous/anxious temperament • excessive worrying • pessimistic thinking • withdrawn behaviour • peer relationship diffi culties (eg can be isolated).

Features associated with children’s ‘externalising’difficulties include: • challenging temperament • reduced problem-solving skills • attention diffi culties, hyperactivity • oppositional behaviour (eg doesn’t like to be told what to do; won’t follow rules) • aggressive behaviour.

Children with ADHD often show severe externalising difficulties.

Children with other serious behaviour problems also show externalising patterns of behaviour, such as persistent aggression. Children with severe internalising diffi culties may be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or with depression.

For more information visit www.kidsmatter.edu.au

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Suitable fo

0-8

Brushing children’s teeth

Suitable fo Years

0-8

Mental health professionals who may help with Brushing About children’s teeth children’s teeth children’s difficulties School psychologist/school counsellor Talk with your child’s school about the possibility of seeing the school psychologist or counsellor. School psychologists and counsellors provide assessment and support for children with mental health difficulties. They advise parents and carers and school staff about helping individual children and may recommend specialist services outside the school.

General practitioner (GP) Your family doctor will give advice and help you decide whether further investigation and treatment is needed. A doctor’s referral is needed to be able to claim the Medicare rebate for mental health treatment from other professionals.

them less likely to develop mental health diffi culties. They help to balance out the risk of developing mental health difficulties and build resilience; the ability to cope with life’s difficulties.

The diagram above shows some key examples of risk andprotective factors that influence children’s mental health.

It is important to note that just because a child is exposed to mental health risk factors, it does not mean he or she will experience mental health diffi culties.

However, when multiple risk factors are present this likelihood is significantly increased.

The relationship between risk and protective factors is complex. However, it is known that reducing risk factors and building protective factors in children has a positive effect on their mental health and wellbeing. KidsMatter Primary works to strengthen children’s protective factors during their primary school years to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Years

About children’s teeth

Baby teeth can arrive in any order. All baby teeth usually arrive by three years. Start cleaning teeth as soon as they come through. Use a clean, damp face washer to clean baby gums and back front eachintooth.

Baby and teeth can of arrive any order. All baby teeth usually arrive by three years. Start cleaning

DENTAL HEALTH teeth as soon as they come through. Use a

clean, damp face washer to clean baby gums and

Brushing teeth: getting started back and front of each tooth.started Brushing teeth: getting

The 32 adult teeth replace baby teeth between the ages of 6 and 20 years. Supervise and help clean children’s teeth until 8 years. Brush teeth and gums twice a day, once in the morning and once at adult night teeth before bed. baby teeth between The 32 replace

the ages of 6 and 20 years. Supervise and help clean children’s teeth until 8 years.

Brush Learn moreteeth about and gums twice a day, once in the morning Dental Care and once at night before bed.

Brushing teeth: getting started

Under 18 months, don’t use

Under 18 months, toothpaste.

From 18 don’t months to 6 years, use a pea-sized use toothpaste.

From 18 amount of low-fluoride months to 6 years, use a toothpaste.

From 6don’t years, use a Under 18 months, use pea-sized amount lowpea-sized amount of of standard toothpaste.

From 18 months to fluoride Use a soft fluoride toothpaste.

From 6 years, toothpaste. use a pea-sized child’s toothbrush. amount of low-fluoride 6small years, use a pea-sized toothpaste.

From 6 years, use a amount of standard fluoride pea-sized amount of standard toothpaste.

Use a soft fluoride toothpaste.

Use asmall soft Brushing teeth: steps small child’s toothbrush. child’s toothbrush.

Sit or stand behind your child

Use your free hand to support

Sit stand lit behind in aorbrightly place, your ideally in front in of a This lets child a mirror. brightly lit place, your child see what you’re ideally in front oftoasit mirror. doing.

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your your child’sfree chin.

Ask her Use hand to to open up and say ‘ah’. Check for any support your child’s chin. signs of decay, such as a white Ask her to open up and say or brown line on the teeth close Use your free hand to support to the gums.chin.

Check plaque ‘ah’.

Check for any signs your child’s Askfor her to open build-up on ‘ah’. teethCheck aroundfor the gum up and say any of decay, such as a white line. signs of decay, such as a white or brown line on the teeth or brown line on the teeth close close the Check gums.for Check to the to gums. plaque build-up on build-up teeth around gum for plaque on the teeth line. around the gum line.

After you’ve finished brushing, your child should spit out any leftover toothpaste, but don’t rinse out the mouth. Rinse toothbrush, put somewhere After you’ve and finished brushing, clean to dry. your child should spit out any After you’ve finished

Avoid giving your child sugary snacks or drinks, especially between meals. Avoid giving your child a bottle of milk, formula or juice bed.sugary Always Avoid giving yourinchild take away bottles after feeding. snacks or drinks, Avoid giving yourespecially child

doing. It’s easier to sit toddlers on your lap.

Brushing teeth: Brushing teeth:steps steps

Using small circular motions, brush all sides of each tooth and the gums. Brush backwards and forwards on all chewing surfaces. the Using small circularTake motions, most with the teeth.

Using small circular motions, brushcare all sides of back each tooth and the brush allgums. sidesBrush of each backwards and forwards on all tooth and the gums.

Brush chewing surfaces. Take the backwards andthe forwards on most care with back teeth. all chewing surfaces. Take the most care with the back teeth.

leftover toothpaste, but don’t brushing, your child rinse out the mouth. Rinse should spit and out put anysomewhere toothbrush, leftover but clean to toothpaste, dry. don’t rinse out the mouth.

Rinse toothbrush, and put somewhere clean to dry.

between meals. or Avoid giving sugary snacks drinks, your child a bottle of milk, especially between meals. formula or© juice in bed.

Always Network Raising Children Avoid giving yourafter child a take away bottles feeding. bottle of milk, formula or juice in bed. Always take © Raising Children Network away bottles after feeding.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

HEALTHY SCHOOL CANTEENS The Healthy Canteen Kit – FoodPlanner can assist in selecting foods and drinks for school canteens and other food-related school activities.

The planner divides foods and drinks into three categories.

EVERYDAY CATEGORY (GREEN FOODS) Foods and drinks in the Everyday category are consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia and are most suitable for school food services.

Foods and drinks in the Everyday category are based on the basic food groups and include: • breads and cereals, rice, pasta, noodles • vegetables • fruits • dairy foods – reduced or low-fat milk, yoghurt and cheese • lean meat and poultry, fish, eggs, nuts* and legumes (dried beans and lentils) • water.

Schools should: • encourage and promote these foods • provide a wide range of these foods every day • take every opportunity to include foods in this group as the main choices on the canteen menu • promote these foods as tasty, fresh and good value choices • present these foods in attractive and interesting ways • include as the main choices at school events and activities involving foods.

SELECT CAREFULLY CATEGORY (AMBER FOODS) Foods and drinks in the Select Carefully category contain some valuable nutrients, but may also include unhealthy ingredients.

They are mainly processed foods that have fat, sugar or salt added.

Schools are encouraged to limit 54

the availability of these foods.

They should not be promoted at the expense of foods and drinks from the Everyday category.

Foods and drinks in the Select Carefully category include: • full-fat dairy foods, low-fat icecream • 100 per cent fruit juices and 100 per cent fruit-juice based ices • artificially sweetened drinks • reduced-fat processed meats • commercially prepared hot foods • reduced-fat, high-fibre snack foods • margarines, oils, spreads, sauces and gravies..

OCCASIONALLY CATEGORY (RED FOODS) Foods and drinks in the Occasionally category are not consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia and are not recommended for school food services.

Schools should limit the availability of these foods and drinks to no more than two occasions per term.

Foods and drinks in this category are defined in the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating as ‘extra foods’ and include: • sugar-sweetened drinks –

sports drinks, cordial, fruit-flavoured drinks • deep-fried foods • pastry-based or crumbed hot foods • savoury snack foods – crisps, chips, biscuits • ice-creams and ice confections – chocolate-coated and premium ice-creams, icy-poles and ice crushes • cakes, muffins, sweet pastries, slices, biscuits and bars.

From 2007, high sugar content soft drinks should not be supplied through school food services.

This includes energy drinks and flavoured mineral waters with high sugar content.

Confectionery is of minimal nutritional value. For this reason the sale of confectionery through school food services will be phased out from 2007–09.

From 2009, no confectionery should be supplied through school food services.

For an explanation of these categories as well as a detailed list of food and drink items that fit into each of the categories refer to the Healthy Canteen Kit – Food Planner. for more information visit education.vic.gov.au

Find out about more Healthy Lunchboxes

HEALTH AND SAFETY

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

FOOD ALLERGY OR INTOLERANCE? Many people think they are allergic to a food when in fact they are intolerant. Unlike food allergies, intolerances do not involve the body’s immune system. Slower in onset and not life threatening, food intolerance symptoms include headaches, bloating, wind, nausea, mouth ulcers or hives.

Symptoms that occur several hours after a food is eaten are more often as a result of an intolerance or enzyme deficiency rather than a food allergy.

A food allergy is not: • The inability to digest a food • An aversion to a food (disliking a food) • Food poisoning • A reaction to a food additive Signs & Symptoms The signs and symptoms of a food allergic reaction may occur almost immediately after eating or most often within 20 minutes to 2 hours after eating. Rapid onset and development of potentially life threatening symptoms are characteristic markers of anaphylaxis.

Allergic symptoms may initially appear mild or moderate but can progress very quickly. The most dangerous allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) involve the respiratory system (breathing) and/or cardiovascular system (heart and blood pressure).

If you suspect a food has caused a reaction, avoid that food, talk with your doctor and have it investigated.

If you know you have a food allergy, then always avoid that specific food trigger.

If you, your child or someone you care for has a reaction to any food, seek medical advice. If you are worried about a serious reaction, call an ambulance or go directly to hospital.

ANAPHYLAXIS FOOD Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction and is potentially life threatening. It must be treated as a medical emergency, requiring immediate treatment and urgent medical attention.

Anaphylaxis is a generalised allergic reaction, which often involves more than one body system (e.g. skin, respiratory, gastro-intestinal, cardiovascular). A severe allergic reaction usually occurs within 20 minutes of exposure to the trigger and can rapidly become life threatening.

Management & Treatment Anaphylaxis is a preventable and treatable event. Knowing the triggers is the first step in prevention.

Children and caregivers need to be educated on how to avoid food allergens and/or other triggers.

However, because accidental exposure is a reality, children and caregivers need to be able to recognise symptoms of an anaphylaxis and be prepared to administer adrenaline according to the individual’s Action Plan for Anaphylaxis.

Research shows that fatalities more often occur away from home and are associated with either not using or a delay in the use of adrenaline.

In Australia, adrenaline can be purchased on the PBS in the form of autoinjectors known as the EpiPen®.

More information on prescription is available through ascia www.allergy.org.au The adrenaline autoinjectors are intramuscular injections that contain a single, pre-measured dose of adrenaline that is given for the emergency treatment of anaphylactic reactions. The devices are for use by lay people and is available in two doses, Epipen® or EpiPen® Jr. Please consult your doctor for more information on allergic reactions, accurate diagnosis and management strategies.

Diagnosis A person who is suspected of having a food allergy should obtain a referral to see an allergy specialist for correct diagnosis, advice on preventative management and emergency treatment. Those diagnosed with severe food or insect allergy must carry emergency medication as prescribed as well as an Action Plan for Anaphylaxis signed by their doctor. Food allergic children who have a history of eczema and/or asthma are at higher risk of severe allergic reactions.

Visit www.allergy facts.org.au or Administration of adrenaline is call 1300 728 000 first line treatment of anaphylaxis. Information reproduced with the permission of allergy facts.org.au.

Common Food Allergy signs and symptoms Mild to moderate allergic reaction

Severe allergic reaction- ANAPHYLAXIS

Hives, welts or body redness

Difficult and/or noisy breathing

Swelling of the face, lips, eyes

Swelling of the tongue

Vomiting, abdominal pain (these are signs of a severe allergic reaction/anaphylaxis in someone with severe insect allergy)

Swelling or tightness in the throat

Tingling of the mouth

Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice Wheeze or persistent cough Persistent dizziness or collapse in its place Pale and floppy (in young children)

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Learn more about living with an Allergy

HEALTH AND SAFETY

IMMUNISATION • Immunisation from an early age helps protect your child against serious childhood infections.

• The Immunisation Schedule Victoria outlines the vaccines your child needs and the age at which each vaccine should be given.

• Some groups are more at risk than others in the community and may need additional vaccines.

• Remain in the clinic with your child for at least 15 minutes after their immunisation to be sure there are no immediate side effects.

• Serious side effects or allergic reactions to the vaccines are rare.

Immunisation from an early age is highly recommended for all Australian children. Having your child immunised helps to protect them from the most serious childhood infections, some of which may threaten their lives.

Routine childhood immunisations help to protect your child against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis), polio, pneumococcal disease, meningococcal C disease, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), rotavirus, chickenpox (varicella), measles, mumps and rubella (German measles).

The National Immunisation Program provides the routine childhood immunisations recommended for all children in Australia, free of charge. Some groups are more at risk than others in the community and may need additional vaccinations.

See your doctor or local health clinic to have your child immunised. All Victorian local councils run immunisation sessions.

Pre-immunisation checklist Before the immunisation, you need to tell the doctor or nurse if your child: • is unwell (temperature over 38.5 ˚C) • has had a severe reaction fol-

lowing any vaccine • has any severe allergies to any other medication or substances • has had any vaccine in the past month • has had an injection of immunoglobulin or received any blood products or a whole blood transfusion within the past year • was a pre-term infant born less than 32 weeks gestation, or weighing less than 2,000 g at birth • as a baby, has had an intussusception (a blockage caused by one portion of the bowel sliding into the next piece of bowel like the pieces of a telescope) • has a chronic illness • has a bleeding disorder • does not have a functioning spleen • lives with someone with a disease or who is having treatment that causes lower immunity – examples include leukaemia, cancer or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), oral steroid medications, radiotherapy or chemotherapy • has a disease which lowers immunity (such as leukaemia, cancer, HIV or AIDS) or is having treatment that causes low immunity (such as oral steroid medication, radiotherapy or chemotherapy) • identifies as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person.

Side effects after immunisation Immunisations are effective and safe, although all medication can have unwanted side effects.

Some children may experience a reaction to a vaccine. In virtually all cases, immunisation side effects are not as serious as the symptoms a child would experience if they were to contract the disease.

The mild side effects can include a mild fever and pain at the injection site. For specific information about side effects from different doses of vaccine, ask your doctor or healthcare professional.

Managing fever after immunisation Common side effects following immunisation are usually mild and temporary (occurring one to two days after vaccination). Specific treatment is not usually required.

There are a number of treatment options that can reduce the side effects of the vaccine including: • giving extra fluids to drink and not overdressing if there is a fever • although routine use of paracetamol after vaccination is not recommended, if fever is present, paracetamol can be given – check the label for the correct dose or speak with your pharmacist (especially when giving paracetamol to children).

Find out more about Immnunisation

Download the VaxOnTime app

Managing injection site reactions Many vaccine injections may result in soreness, redness, itching, swelling or burning at the injection site for one to two days.

A cool compress on the site and paracetamol might be required to ease the discomfort.

Concerns about side effects of immunisation If the side effect following immunisation is unexpected, persistent or severe or if you are worried about yourself or your child’s condition after a vaccination, see your doctor or immunisation nurse as soon as possible or go directly to a hospital. Immunisation side effects may be reported to SAEFVIC, the Victorian vaccine safety and central reporting service.

You can discuss with your immunisation provider how to report adverse events in other states or territories. It is also important to seek medical advice if you (or your child) are unwell, as this may be due to other illness rather than because of the vaccination. for more information visit better health.vic.gov.au

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PROTECT WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU

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Extensive crash-test research conducted at Toyota’s full-scale testing facilities help us design cars that can reduce the severity of collisions. Give your family the reassurance of safer driving by visiting your local Toyota dealership.

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STREET SMART KEEPING SAFE IN CROWDS Any parent who has had a child wander away while in a crowded place knows that having a lost child is a very scary situation.

Since kids are adventurous, having a lost child is relatively normal, but thankfully there are ways to protect their safety while you are out.

FOLLOWING ARE SOME TIPS ON KEEPING KIDS SAFE AND NEARBY WHILE IN A CROWD. • Take a picture on your phone before you leave the house.

If you are separated from your child when you are out, a digital photo from your phone (taken the day of the event or travel) can be utilised by police to immediately get your child’s face out to other law enforcement officials. In addition to their face, you’ll have a photo of exactly what they were wearing, as well as what they look like.

• Teach children to identify help if they are separated from mum or dad. While it’s easy to tell children to find help, young children may have a difficult time understanding just what “help” means. To kids, any adult might mean help, and it’s important for parents to teach children just who they should be looking for. You can do this by pointing out policemen, firemen, or security guards when you are out. Teach children to recognise store employees as well (look for name tags or someone behind the counter).

• All children should know their full name, address and telephone number.

• Try to keep your kids in sight at all times. Never send them to the bathrooms alone, even if they’re old enough to use them without help.

• If you are in a crowded location, establish an easy to find meeting spot just in case anyone gets separated from you.

• Using a safety harness is another possibility to keep toddlers from wandering away, since in most cases, they aren’t old enough to know that it is dangerous to walk away.

IF SOMEONE TRIES TO SNATCH YOUR CHILD: • Teach your children to struggle with anyone whom they don’t know, or whom they don’t trust, if they are trying to grab or force the children to go with them • Tell children to make a lot of noise if they’re scared. They have probably been told lots of times not to yell. Tell your children when they think they might be in danger, forget all of that advice! That’s the perfect time to be noisy!

DEALING WITH STRANGERS When you’re walking home from school, a person in a car pulls up and asks you for directions.

At the park, someone says he needs you to help look for his lost puppy. These people may seem friendly, but no matter what they say to you, they have one thing in common: They’re strangers.

Most strangers aren’t dangerous and wouldn’t do anything to hurt kids. Unfortunately, though, some strangers can be dangerous, and it’s impossible to tell who’s OK and who’s not. A dangerous person doesn’t necessarily look scary or mean — the person might look nice.

THAT’S WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW THESE BASIC SAFETY RULES ALL THE TIME: • Stick With a Friend – it’s more fun and safer to do things with friends. Take along a buddy when you walk to school, bike around the park, or go to the store. Travelling with a friend whenever you can is a good idea, and travelling with a bunch of kids is even better.

• Let Grown-Ups (and Only Grown-Ups) Help Strangers – it’s nice to help people. But remember: Strangers should ask adults, not kids, for help.

• If a Stranger Pulls Up in a Car and Offers you a Ride, Don’t Get In. You probably know that rule, right? But that’s not all of it. It’s also important to avoid a stranger’s car completely.

If a stranger asks you to look in the car, don’t do it. Don’t put your arm in the window to take something or point to something. Don’t agree to 59

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Safety is our number one priority Travelling safely on the Melbourne Metropolitan bus network depends on the actions of our bus drivers, our customers and everyone in between.

TEACH THEM WELL Did you know schools can book a Transdev presentation on safe bus travel and understanding myki?

For more information go to www.transdevmelbourne.com.au or call 1800 718 121.

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STREET SMART

come closer to see a pet or to get a toy that’s offered.

• If a Stranger Offers You a Toy, Some Candy, a Stuffed Animal, or Anything Else, Don’t Ever Take It. Even if it’s something you really want, if the offer is coming from a stranger, you should ignore the person and walk the other way.

• If a Stranger Walks Up or Pulls Up in a Car and You’re Too Far Away to Hear the Person, Don’t Go Closer, Even If the Person Waves You Over. Just get away.

Run the opposite way that the car is heading. Get to an adult you know, a police officer, a

security guard, or one of your safe spots as fast as you can if the stranger comes toward you.

• What If a Stranger Comes To Pick You Up From School, Sports, Dancing Lessons, or the Park? This is no different from any other time — a stranger is a stranger, so don’t get in the car.

Even if the stranger says that your parents sent him or her, or that there’s an emergency and you must get in the car and go to the hospital, turn right around and tell an adult what happened. Your parents would have told you if someone else was coming to pick you up, and

if an emergency really did occur, they would send someone you already know, not a stranger.

• Even if The Stranger Knows Your Name, Don’t Be Fooled.

There are lots of ways to find out kids’ names, even when someone doesn’t know them or their families.

• Trust Your Instincts – kids need to follow the rules of street smarts all the time with every stranger, even if the situation seems fine. And if your instinct is telling you something is dangerous or just not quite right, get out of the area, tell an adult, or a police officer or call 000.

ROAD SAFETY

School speed limit dates Time-based school zones operate between 8–9.30am and 2.30–4pm on weekdays during Victoria’s school terms (except for public holidays).

Time-based school zone sign Slow down during school times to keep kids safe as they travel to and from school. For information on school term dates, see the table above.

Slow down during school times and help keep our kids safe.

School speed zones are reduced-speed areas that operate near schools. They’re designed to keep kids safe by lowering the speed limit at peak times when children are travelling to and from school.

What’s the speed limit?

In most cases the speed limit (during school speed zone times) is: • 40km/h (when the original speed limit is less than 80km/h • 60km/h (when the original speed limit is 80km/h or higher).

The speed limit and operating times for the zone will be clearly displayed on nearby signs (see below for examples).

When do school speed limits apply?

This depends on the kind of zone you’re travelling in. There are several types of school speed zones, including: • permanent 40km/h zones • time-based zones (where reduced speed limits apply between 8–9.30am and 2.30–4pm on school days – see below for dates) • variable speed limit zones (where speed limits are shown using electronic signs).

School speed zone signs Keep an eye out for the following signs and make sure to travel within the speed limit shown.

Advance warning signs Prepare to slow down as you approach as school speed zone.

Many of these signs will have a yellow background.

40 AHEAD SCHOOL TIMES Permanent School zone sign Slow down to 40km/h at all times.

40

SCHOOL ZONE

8-9 2 -4

30 AM

30

PM

SCHOOL DAYS

Learn more about Road Safety

40

SCHOOL ZONE

8-9 2 -4

30 AM

30

PM

SCHOOL DAYS

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Variable electronic signs These signs are often used on roads with high speeds or large traffic volumes. The speed limit displayed will change depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

60 for more information visit vicroads.gov.au 61

Renault CAPTUR

CDC VICTORIA

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STREET SMART

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY Cars Can Kill kids Every week in Australia a child pedestrian is killed (about 50 a year).

For every child killed another 25 are admitted to hospital. About 13 of these deaths are children run over by reversing vehicles, typically in driveways.

Pedestrian injury deaths are second only to car passenger deaths for children aged 5 to 14 and account for 1 in 5 injury deaths for this age group.

Children Aren’t ‘Little Adults’ Roads are designed with adults in mind, but children aren’t ‘little adults’.

Children do not have as much trafficexperience or knowledge and are physically and cognitively less developed. Unlike adults, children: • Can’t see over bushes or parked cars • Can’t be seen easily by drivers • Can’t stop quickly • Run into traffic • Imitate inappropriate behaviour • Can’t tell where sounds are coming from • May only notice one thing at a time • Have trouble concentrating • Tend to only look ahead • Tend to freeze in danger • Think that if they can see you, you can see them • Peripheral vision is under developed to age 9.

Children are not ‘little adults’. Being a pedestrian is a risky business for a child, especially in busy areas.

Driveways Are Roads Tragically every week in Australia, one child, often a toddler, is run over in the driveway of their home.

In the time a parent, family member, or friend takes to say goodbye, a child can move from a ‘safe’ position onto the driveway and into the path of a vehicle.

The vehicle is often moving slowly but even then it can sometimes be impossible to see small children, especially if they are behind the car.

Prevention • H old your child’s hand or keep them close when a vehicle is being moved from or onto a driveway.

• When moving a vehicle, make sure your child is being supervised by another adult or they are in the car with you.

• Discourage children from using driveways as a play area.

• Use barriers such as security doors, fencing and gates to restrict access to your driveway.

Watch Your Children Near Roads Walking is an important part of a child’s life. It is important for their health, fitness, and their ability to get around their neighbourhood.

Getting to and home from school may also rely on walking.

Before 5 years of age children should never be left aloneto cope with traffic situations. It is important that you hold your child’s hand at all times when near traffic. Set a good example for your child to copy. Explain to your child what you are doing when you cross the road together. From 5 to 9 years, children should still be supervised at all times near traffic. Teach your child how to cross roads:

STOP at the kerb LOOK, both ways, for traffic LISTEN for traffic THINK, decide whether it’s safe to cross

Make the trip to school together along the safest footpaths and use safe crossing places. If you aren’t able to take your child yourself, arrange for a responsible adult to supervise your child on the way to and from school. Explain words as “fast”, “slow”, “near” and “far”. Talk about road signs, traffic lights and safe places to cross.

From 10 to 13 years of age children can cope more safely in traffic on their own. However, the busier the roads they must cross, the older they need to be.

Check your child always stops, looks, listens and thinks when crossing roads.

Tell your child about road laws in simple terms, go for walks together.

Plan with your child safe routes to school and places often visited.

Make sure your child wears clothes that are easy to see. (e.g. Bright or light coloured clothing.)

School Car Parks School car parks are a major risk for children • Every one is in a hurry and children, especially, are tired in the afternoon.

• School carparks are very busy places, with many distractions adding to the confusion for children.

• Reduce traffic congestion – walk or ride with your child.

• Pedestrian injuries can be severe. They are a significant cause of child disability. for more information visit kidsafevic.com.au

Learn more about Children and Pedestrian Safety

CYCLIST SAFETY In Victoria, all bike riders and their passengers and scooter riders are required to wear a bike helmet.

This applies when riding on: • roads • bike paths • bike lanes • shared and separated footpaths • recreational parks • car parks.

Research indicates that bike helmets greatly reduce the risk of head injuries, which are the major cause of death and injury to bike riders. When choosing a bike helmet make sure: • it fits firmly and comfortably on your head and cannot be tilted in any direction • the straps can be adjusted so there is no slack when fastened • it has a sticker showing it is safety approved and meets the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 2063 • if the helmet is manufactured or imported from 1 July 2012, it is marked with the symbol of a body accredited by the Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ)*, certifying compliance with AS/NZS2063. * Accredited companies that certify bike helmets can be found on the JAS-ANZ website.

Research shows that wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 60 to 90 per cent.

Of children aged 0-9 years who were fatally or seriously injured, only 42 per cent were wearing helmets (according to police reported crashes between 2004 and 2008).A bicycle helmet will only protect your child’s head if it is the right size and fitted correctly.

The information below is for

Learn more about Cyclist Safety

Watch how to Check for Motorists and Cyclists

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Your safety is our top priority CityLink features world-class tunnel safety systems, automatic incident detection cameras, 24/7 rapid response teams and electronic advisory signs to alert motorists of traffic hazards because we want you and your family to have a safe journey.

Proud partner of Melbourne’s Run for the Kids

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One of BP’s core values is safety.

We believe it should be top of mind for everyone.

Bus Association Victoria Inc is the voluntary professional association for Victoria’s accredited route, school, tour and charter and non-accredited (registered) bus and coach operators.

On behalf of our members, BusVic undertake school and community safety education programmes to ensure students and the public stay as safe as possible on and around buses, including:

DESIGNED FOR SAFETY FORD MONDEO NOW WITH R E A R I N F L ATA B L E S E AT B E LT S

• • •

Safe School Bus Travel sessions for Prep to Year 4 students.

Public/bus transport and positive behaviour education for Year 5 to Year 10 students.

Bus Safety Week – It’s a shared responsibility. A Victorian safety initiative.

Further information available at http://www.busvic.asn.au/public or call us on 03 9645 3300.

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parents and carers to help them ensure their children wear a correctly fitted and adjusted helmet.

When should my child wear a helmet?

An accident can happen anywhere, and it only takes an impact with the ground or concrete to sustain a head injury. Children should always wear a helmet when using tricycles, bicycles, scooters, when travelling as a passenger on an adult’s bike, in a bike trailer, or when using any other wheeled item.It is important to teach

your child to take their helmet off when they finish riding and before they move to another activity. The straps on a helmet can get caught on furniture and play equipment if they are still wearing their helmet.

Correctly fitting a helmet Place your hands on top of the helmet and try to move it. It should not be possible to tilt the helmet: • forwards to cover the eyes • backwards to uncover the forehead • sideways to uncover the side of

the head.

When the helmet is fastened it should be squarely positioned on the head. The rim of the helmet should sit on the forehead just above the eyebrows.

The straps should be adjusted so that there is no slack when the buckle is securely fastened under the chin. Ensure straps are not twisted and that the side straps form a V shape with the point just under the ear lobe. for more information visit vicroads.gov.au

BUS SAFETY

Bus Safety – it’s a shared responsibilty

Are you following the road sharing rules

Do you travel to school by bus?

Over 183 million bus and coach trips are made in Victoria each year. That’s 119 million in metro route buses, 27 million in dedicated school buses, 20 million in tour and charter coaches, 15 million in regional town buses, and 1.5 million in V/Line coaches.

Fatalities and serious injuries associated with all of these trips are relatively low, making bus travel one of the safest modes of transport. Any serious accident is one too many.

Bus safety regulators, operators, workers, manufacturers and Government are committed to achieving safe bus transport for the benefit of all Victorians.

The Bus Safety Act 2009 (Vic) (BSA), administered by Transport Safety Victoria (TSV), is a law that all bus operators must comply with.

It requires bus operators to be: • Accredited if they are providing a commercial bus service or a local bus service.

• Registered if their bus service is either a community and private bus service or a commercial mini-bus service.

Accredited bus operators must have comprehensive safety and risk management systems in place which are assessed and audited by TSV. This provides peace of mind to all Victorians.

To continually improve bus safety we ask that you please play your part too.

When you’re driving, give way to a bus merging into traffic, it’s not just courtesy, it’s the law. It helps keep you and others safe and helps the bus driver keep to the timetable.

Remember that buses are large vehicles that can’t stop quickly. All road users (drivers, pedestrians, cyclists) need to allow buses ample space and time for braking. Sudden stops can sometimes cause passengers to fall and injure themselves. You, or someone important to you, might be the bus passenger affected by sudden braking.

Leave dedicated bus lanes clear for buses only.You may drive in a bus lane for a distance of up to 100 metres if you are: • Entering or leaving a road.

• Entering a part of the road from a service road, a road shoulder or an emergency stopping lane.

• Overtaking a vehicle that is making a u-turn from the centre of the road or giving a right turn signal.

• Entering a marked lane, or a part of the road where there is room for a line of traffic (other than motorbikes, bicycles, motorised wheelchairs or animals).

Do not park in bus zones, bus stops or other parking signed for buses. When you do, it causes safety issues for the passengers and other vehicles on the road.

For students: • Stand well back from the road and don’t push and shove when waiting for the school bus.

• Only approach the kerb once the school bus completely stops.

• While on board sit down and hold on.

• If the bus has seatbelts you must wear them at all times.

• Don’t be noisy or unruly, the driver has to concentrate on driving.

• When leaving the bus never cross the road until the bus has moved away and you can clearly see all road traffic.

• Remove your headphones and ignore your mobile phone so that you can be fully aware of your surroundings.

For parents: • Try to park on the same side of the road as the school bus stop so your child doesn’t have to cross the road. Remember many school bus stops are located on roads that have 80/100 km speed limits.

For car drivers: • Slow down and watch for students when you a school bus has stopped.

Learn more about Bus Safety

Watch a video on Bus Safety

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SAFETY IN CARS Choosing and using the safest restraint for your child • choosing the safest restraint for your child • the latest developments in the Australian standard for child restraints • restraints for children with additional needs.

It is the law that all children under 16 years of age, when travelling in a motor vehicle in Victoria, must be restrained in a suitable restraint that is properly adjusted and fastened.

The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.

Child restraints and booster seats used in Victoria must comply with the Australian/New Zealand Standard 1754 for child restraints.

Visit vicroads.vic.gov.au/ childrestraints for the latest list of child restraint products available.

Children under 6 months (rearward)

Children aged under 6 months A child aged under 6 months must travel in a rearward facing child restraint.

All rearward facing child restraints must be held in place by the seatbelt and the top tether strap, and must have an inbuilt harness.

Some rearward facing child restraints can be turned around and used as a forward facing child restraint when the child is around 6 to 12 months of age. This type of restraint is often called a convertible restraint.

Children aged 6 months to under 4 years A child aged 6 months to under 4 years must travel in either a rearward facing or forward facing child restraint. The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.

All rearward and forward facing child restraints must be held in

Children aged between 6 months and 4 years

place by the seatbelt and the top tether strap, and must have an inbuilt harness.

Some rearward facing child restraints can be turned around and used as a forward facing child restraint when the child is around 6 to 12 months of age. Only move your child to a forward facing child restraint when they have outgrown their rearward facing child restraint.

Children aged 4 years to under 7 years A child aged 4 years to under 7 years must travel in either a forward facing child restraint with an inbuilt harness, or a booster seat.

The type of restraint will depend on the child’s size.

All forward facing child restraints must be held in place by the seatbelt and the top tether strap, and must have an inbuilt harness.

Children aged between 4 years and 7 years

Learn more about Child Restraints

Learn more about VicRoads story book and apps

Older children 145 cm or taller

Help us ensure kids are buckled up correctly. Research has shown 70% of child restraints in cars aren’t fitted or used properly. Properly fitted child restraints mean children are less likely to be injured in an accident.

Holden is offering a free community service to eligible childcare centres,* where families can have their child seats checked by a professional fitter.

To book a visit with a professional fitter and take advantage of Holden’s free child restraint checking service, childcare centre representatives please telephone (03) 8530 8777 or go to www.holden.com.au for details. *Please see Buckle Up Kids Overview and FAQ section on www.holden.com.au for more details on participant eligibility.

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Some forward facing child restraints can be used as a booster seat by removing the inbuilt harness. This type of restraint is often called a combination restraint.

Only move your child to a booster seat when they have outgrown their forward facing child restraint.

A booster seat can be used with a lap-sash seatbelt or child safety harness. Refer to the restraint manufacturer’s instructions Booster cushions (with no seat back) are not recommended as they provide no protection in a side impact crash.

Adult seatbelts Children aged 7 years to under 16 years must travel in either a booster seat, or an adult seatbelt.

A child should continue using a booster seat until they have outgrown it.

An adult lap-sash seatbelt is designed for people with a minimum height of 145 cm.

The average child will reach this height between 10 and 12 years of age.

Lap-sash seatbelts offer better protection to passengers than lap-only seatbelts, but they must fit correctly. This means the lap part of the seatbelt is positioned low over the hip and the sash part of the seatbelt sits in the middle of the shoulder and does not touch the neck.

KIDS IN HOT CARS Never leave childrean unattended in a car The thought of running a quick errand and leaving the children in the car for a minute can be tempting for a parent or carer.

Leaving children unattended in a car on any day is dangerous, let alone a hot summer’s day.

It could result in serious injury or death. In some states it is against the law to leave children unattended in a car. Check the motoring authority in your state or territory for the relevant laws and regulations.

KIDS IN CARS - THE NUMBERS

5,000

30+

75%

Every year across Australia, approximately 5,000 children have to be rescued from cars.

The temperature inside a parked car can be over 30 degrees hotter than outside.

of total temperature rise occurs within the first 5 minutes of parking a car.

70°C Even on a cooler day, temperatures inside a car can reach well above 70°C

What are the risks?

On a typical Australian summer day, the temperature inside a parked car can be 20 degrees C to 30 degrees C hotter than the outside temperature.

The temperature inside a car can reach dangerous levels quickly; 75% of the temperature rise occurs within the first 5 minutes of closing and leaving the car.

Large cars heat up just as fast as smaller ones.

Leaving the windows down slightly has little effect on the inside car temperature. Tests conducted by RACQ have shown that when car windows are left open by 10cm, the inside temperature is only 5 degrees C cooler than with the windows closed.

Young children are more sensitive to heat than older children or adults as their body temperature can rise 3 to 5 times faster. This puts them at greater risk of heatstroke and other health risks as their body temperature reaches dangerous levels much sooner.

Hot cars safety tips • If you have to leave the car, even to run a quick errand - take the children with you.

• Never use the car as a substitute ‘babysitter’.

4 Three quarters of children rescued from cars are aged under four years old.

• Never leave children in a car without adult supervision for anylength of time, not even a minute!

• Lock cars and secure keys when at home to prevent children playing inside the car.

• Make ‘look before you leave’ a routine whenever you get out of the car.

• When a child is missing, in addition to checking backyard pools and any other bodies of water, be sure to check inside the car and the boot of any nearby vehicles.

• Never leave valuables in the car, including your kids!

Find out more about Kids in Hot Cars

Download Kids in Hot Car Tips

Summer holiday travelling • Provide plenty of cool water and fluids throughout the journey.

• Dress kids in lightweight and easy fit clothing.

• When planning a long journey, consider travelling in the cooler hours of the day.

• Plan to stop every 2 hours so all passengers can have a rest from travelling.

• If you need to protect babies or young children from sun through the car windows, use a visor or sunshade on the vehicle glass.

• On every trip, check the fit of your 67

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child’s harness, child restraint tether straps and secure seatbelts to ensure they are correctly latched and firmly adjusted.

What can you do if you see a child alone in a car?

• If you notice that a child has been left unattended in a vehicle call 000 and ask for the Fire Brigade.

• Give your location, the vehicle registration number, the approximate age of the child and the condition of the child.

• If the car is unlocked, open the doors and shield windows with a blanket etc. and wait for emergency services – or – safely try to remove the child from the vehicle if you are concerned about the child’s condition as every second counts! for more information visit kidsafevic.com.au

MOBILE PHONES, TECHNOLOGY & DRIVING Using a mobile phone or other device, like a Smartwatch, while driving or riding can be distracting, increasing your chance of being involved in a crash or near crash.

Looking at or touching a device at the same time as being in control of a vehicle is particularly dangerous.

Safe driving tips for mobile phones and other devices Observe these tips to stay safe on the road: • Use Road Mode (External link) an android app that prevents you from being distracted by your phone while you drive.

• If your phone has another app or function that prevents distraction while driving, you can also use that.

• Consider putting your phone on silent and out of reach, or turn it off.

• Divert all calls to voicemail.

• Pull over safely and park to make or receive a call.

• Plan breaks in your trip for 68

phone calls.

• Tell your family and friends not to call when you know you’ll be driving.

• If you are using your phone hands free, warn callers you are driving and may have to end the call.

• Don’t make calls in heavy traffic, poor road conditions or bad weather.

• Never look up phone numbers.

• Never read or send text messages.

• Don’t use Smartwatches or other similar devices.

• Remember, taking your eyes off the road for 2 seconds or more doubles your crash risk.

A mobile phone can be important in an emergency. If you need to use your mobile phone to call for help, stop and park safely where you will not endanger yourself or other road users.

All drivers All drivers face tough penalties for illegal use of a mobile phone or interacting with other units that have visual displays while driving (e.g. DVD players or tablet computers) that are not driver’s aids.

The penalties are 4 demerit points and a $455 fine.

The penalties are 4 demerit points and a $455 fine. It’s a proven fact that using a mobile phone while driving can be distracting.

Taking your eyes off the road for just 2 seconds or more doubles your crash risk. Research shows that the behaviour of a manual or visual distraction whilst driving causes crashes and near misses. for more information visit vicroads.gov.au

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN Public transport is a fun and easy way to travel around Melbourne with children. There are so many things around the city to see and do and by planning ahead and following some simple travel tips public transport is a great way for you and your children to explore it all.

Children aged three years and

under travel for free right across Victoria.

Waiting for a train, tram or bus • Stand well behind the line or back from the edge of the footpath or platform edge.

• On long or curved platforms and stops wait close to the front of the train or tram so the driver can see you.

• Watch-out for vehicles on the move and stand back from vehicles that aren’t stopping.

• Leave plenty of time for your journey so you’re not rushing to meet your train, tram or bus.

• Don’t run to meet your train, tram or bus, especially on platforms and near busy roads.

• Be prepared and buy your public transport ticket before you travel and remember children aged three years and under travel for free.

• Never leave children alone on train platforms or at tram and bus stops.

Travelling with a pram It’s free to take a pram or stroller on public transport.

• Hold on to your pram and make sure your child is strapped in securely.

• Apply the parking brake at all times to prevent rolling.

• Stand with your pram behind the line on train platforms and tram stops and away from the curb at bus stops.

• Make sure your pram is parked parallel to the platform or footpath edge.

• Board the train at the front carriage so the driver can clearly see you.

• When leaving the train, tram or bus, watch the gap, exit backwards, and if travelling by tram check for traffic.

• At train stations, use the escalators with care and use lifts where they are available.

On-board • Try to travel outside peak times.

Peak times are before 9am and between 4 - 6pm.

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• Keep children seated where possible. If you and your children don’t take a seat make sure you all have something to hold on to.

• Never leave your child alone on board a train, tram or bus.

• If you’re travelling with more than one child, keep everyone together.

• Make sure your belongings are stored safely and avoid blocking the aisle.

• On longer trips, bring along toys or activities to help make the journey fun.

Getting off • Trains, trams and buses stop for a relatively short time. Be prepared to get off safely by allowing plenty of time to gather your belongings.

• If you do get ready to alight before reaching your destination station or stop, make sure you have something to hold on to.

• When travelling on a tram or bus, get prepared to leave early so that the driver can see you and allow time for you to exit.

• If you’re travelling by tram check for traffic before you exit.

TRAM SAFETY There are a number of things that you can do to make your tram journey safer and more secure.

Before your journey it is recommended that you top up your myki.

Safety starts before you even get to the tram stop. Please listen and watch for traffic and trams.

For your safety, the use of personal headphones is not recommended.

Waiting for the tram • Always stand behind the line marking.

• Do not lean against the safety railing at platform or roadside stops.

• Never lean or walk out into the path of oncoming trams or traffic.

• There can be many routes travelling through the one stop.

Check the destination board on the oncoming tram and if it is your tram give the driver a wave to ensure you’re visible.

• Before boarding have your myki ready to validate.

• Be aware of the red stop signs on the doors that signal motorists to stop for passengers getting on and off the tram.

Getting on safely • When boarding from a kerbside stop, wait for all traffic to stop completely before you walk out onto the road to board the tram.

• Please wait for passengers get off the tram before you board at any tram stop.

• When boarding use the handrails to steady yourself when the tram moves.

• Never bring food or drink on board a tram. Keep your hands free so that you can steady yourself.

On board • Remember to hold onto the handrails. The tram may move off without you realising it, so be prepared or you may lose your balance.

• Stay clear of the doorways once you have validated your myki.

• When seated, place any bags on your lap.

• Please offer your seat to elderly people, pregnant women and people who are mobility impaired.

• If a seat is not available, move to

an empty part of the tram, using the handrails to steady yourself.

• Do not obstruct the doors when they are closing. If you need the doors reopened, attract the attention of the driver.

When standing on a tram • Place schoolbags, shopping bags or briefcases on the floor between your feet.

• Allow other passengers room to move around you if they need to get off the tram.

• Always have something to hold on to as the tram may have to brake suddenly.

Find out more about Tram Safety

Getting off safely • Please provide the driver with plenty of notice for your stop by using the stop cord or button.

• Never use your body, arms or hands to obstruct the tram doors while they are closing.

If you miss your stop please inform the driver to ensure they allow the necessary time for you to disembark at the next stop. Reopening doors is at the drivers discretion.

• When getting off the tram always watch your step and check for traffic.

• Once you are off the tram, stay within the safety zone until the road is clear and it’s safe to cross.

• Never walk out behind a tram to cross tram tracks as you may not see trams coming in the opposite direction. for more information visit ptv.vic. gov.au 69

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TRAIN SAFETY There are a number of things that you can do to make your train journey safer and more secure.

Before your journey, it is recommended that you top up your myki. This will save you time and ensure you don’t miss your ride when you get to the station.

Victoria Police Protective Services Officers (PSOs) are there to keep you safe when travelling on Melbourne’s train network. For more information, see Victoria Police Protective Services Officers Safety at stations • Before you begin your train journey, check timetables and any connecting train, tram or bus services.

• When waiting for the train, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform.

• Avoid running in and around the station, particularly when footpaths and platform surfaces are wet.

• Take care when using escalators and ensure clothing and bag straps do not get caught.

• Passengers in wheelchairs or travelling with prams and trolleys should use the lifts where available.

• Only cross train tracks at designated pedestrian crossings.

Crossing at non-marked areas is dangerous and illegal.

• Rollerblading, skateboarding and bicycle riding is not permitted on the station platform.

Boarding and getting off trains • Stand behind the yellow line until the train comes to a complete stop.

• Do not force the doors open or attempt to board when the train is leaving the platform.

• Allow other passengers to step off the train before you board.

• Drivers will assist passengers with special needs to board at the front carriage. Yellow or white markers on platforms indicate where the train will stop.

• If you are travelling with a pram or shopping trolley, board at 70

the front carriage so that you’re clearly visible to the driver.

• When boarding the train enter the pram first and lift the back in if the train isn’t level with the platform. When exiting the train, step off first and then pull the pram towards you.

• Use the grab rails to steady yourself when boarding or alighting.

• Prepare to alight before reaching your destination station, but make sure you have something to hold onto.

Safety on board trains • Once you’re on board, take a seat or steady yourself by holding a grab rail if you are standing.

• Avoid moving between carriages whilst the train is moving.

• Passengers travelling with bicycles or surfboards are requested to avoid using peak hour trains where possible.

• After 7pm, travel in the front carriage so you are close to the driver.

• If there are other passengers on the train, sit near them, not by yourself.

• Carry a phone card, spare

change or mobile phone.

• Make sure your luggage is stowed correctly and avoid blocking the aisle.

• Please offer your seat to elderly people, those with special needs and pregnant women.

Security All stations are well lit and monitored by closed-circuit television cameras on platforms and at station entrances. This footage is monitored by control room staff located at Premium Stations.

All non-staffed stations have communication links to these control rooms via the emergency button. By using this link you can communicate directly with staff equipped to deal with incidents.

Metro Customer Service Officers travel on trains and visit stations to help you with your travel needs. Intelligence based tasking is used to focus on hotspots and ensure the safety and comfort of passengers.

Victorian Police Transit Safety Division officers and local police also patrol trains and pay regular visits to all stations. While some officers are in uniform, many work

Find out more about Train Safety

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penalty can be catastrophic. You are putting yours and others’ lives at risk if you disobey the rules.

Between you and a train, you will come off second best.

in plain clothes. Remember, while you don’t see the uniform, the person sitting next to you could be a police officer.

The presence of Customer Service Officers and police provides a deterrent for anti-social behaviour.

RAIL CROSSING SAFETY AWARENESS Don’t push your crossing luck Most people are unaware of the penalties associated with pushing their luck and illegally entering a level crossing while warning signals are flashing and sounding, or a train is visible. They are substantial.

As a driver, you can be fined $758 and lose 4 demerit points.

Depending on how many points you have left, this could mean you lose your licence.

Pedestrians can be fined up to $379. So don’t waste your hard earned cash, be aware and alert around level crossings and trains.

Take off those headphones and listen!

Of course, the maximum

Always keep tracks clear Impatience can be fatal. It takes a train more than 200 metres to stop, therefore: • Never enter a level crossing if red lights are flashing. Wait for the lights to stop flashing before driving across railway tracks • Never drive under ascending or descending boom gates as an oncoming train is in the vicinity or a second train may be approaching • Never drive around boom gates when they are down - it is very likely that an oncoming train is close to the crossing • Never queue on a railway crossing - if you have stopped on a crossing and a train is approaching, immediately drive off the track or get out of your car and move clear. It is more likely than not, that the train will not be able to stop in time.

Slow down and be prepared to stop It is important to take extra care when approaching a railway crossing and get into the habit of stopping, looking and listening for any sign of a train: • Not all railway crossings have warning bells and lights - for your own safety, always expect a train to be coming, keep your eyes open and your wits about you • Never rely on just a timetable to know if a train is due • Never race a train to a railway crossing • Trains can be travelling in either direction along the same track and on multiple tracks - be alert for more than one train passing through the crossing at the same time • Don’t be fooled by an optical illusion - trains in the distance are often closer and travelling

faster than they appear.

See also VicRoads’ Trains and level crossings road rules.

Using farm crossings Take care when using farm crossings: • when entering a property, stop well clear of the tracks, open the gate and then drive across after looking and listening for approaching trains • when leaving a property, never park a vehicle on the tracks while closing a gate - in the time it takes to open and close a gate, a train can be upon you.

Safe use of rail pedestrian crossings It is everyone’s responsibility to use level crossings safely: • Cross railway lines at marked crossings only.

• Stop one step back from the edge of the crossing before looking and listening in all directions for approaching trains.

• Think about when it is safe to cross. This is when the tracks are clear and there are no trains approaching.

• If a train is coming, wait for it to pass, then stop, look, listen and think again before crossing.

Another train may be coming.

• Always obey all warning signs.

• Never jump fences, gates or barriers at crossings.

• Never force pedestrian barriers open or use the emergency escape to enter pedestrian crossings, except in case of an emergency.

• Children should always be supervised around public transport. Hold the hand of children up to five years old when crossing rail lines.

• If using a wheelchair or mobility aid, or pushing a pram or stroller, and the barriers start to close while you are on the crossing, always go to the emergency escape gate ahead of you and not back to where you entered the crossing.

For more information visit ptv.vic.gov.au

Find out more about Rail Crossing Safety Awareness

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DRUG AWARENESS

DRUG AND ALCOHOL AWARENESS Talking to your kids aged 15-17 For some parents, talking to your teenager about alcohol and setting rules and boundaries to keep them safe, can be daunting.

Many parents feel that it’s their responsibility to create strategies and educate their children on when, where and how to drink.

However some parents can struggle with how to provide this guidance.

It’s vital that parents keep the lines of communication open through the teen years. Make sure you have frank discussions about alcohol.

• Debunk some of the popular and unhelpful myths – e.g. not every parent provides their child with alcohol.

• Be prepared. Teenagers will raise the topic of alcohol if and when they’re ready to talk. Be ready to have the conversation and address their queries – that’s when they’re most open to hear your advice. Remember to plan what you want to say to them ahead of time.

• Be aware of your own role modelling when it comes to alcohol.

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s attitude and behaviours towards alcohol by being role models for their kids.

Tips for the talk • Pick your time. The car can be a great place and time for constructive conversations – they’re a captive audience and there’s also the benefit that they don’t have to be facing you.

• Be consistent in your own behaviour. It’s easier for teens to model their behaviour on positive role models when it’s consistent.

• Draw the line between adult activities and child activities.

Don’t be afraid to let your child know that some things aren’t appropriate for teens. If you believe that drinking alcohol is 72

only something that adults do, make sure they hear your views on the matter.

• Challenge unfounded statements. If your child tells you that ‘everyone else drinks’, ask them to provide proof.

• Challenge their beliefs. Be aware that teenagers are likely to want to drink alcohol believing it will help them fit in. They need to know they can fit in without drinking.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Your GP or local health professional is available for you and your teen.

large amounts of alcohol at home before heading out. Often they’re already intoxicated before they walk out the front door. By the time they get to where they’re going their judgement is clouded, causing them to continue drinking more than they intended to, so they don’t save money at all.

If your teen really believes getting drunk every weekend is normal, there could be other factors at play.

Perhaps there are other influences in their lives (peers, older siblings, relatives) or problems that you’re unaware of. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions.

Binge drinking – putting things in perspective Binge drinking is not just about the number of drinks you have – it’s about drinking with the specific intention of ‘getting drunk’.

Binge drinking receives a great deal of media attention and can lead to shaping teens beliefs that this is the norm. There’s no denying that there are many young people who drink in risky ways, but there are many teenagers who are trying their best to keep themselves and their friends as safe as possible.

Talking to your kids aged 9-14 Kids are interested in what’s going on around them and seeing how their role models use alcohol is part of this. So it’s important to start talking to your kids about alcohol. And the right time to start is right now.

Research shows that parents have the greatest impact on shaping their children’s attitude to alcohol and future drinking behaviour. The role alcohol plays in your life will have an effect on them too.

They might ask you about alcohol and what it’s like to drink it. Always answer honestly.

• Talk to your child about alcohol and the importance of drinking in moderation. Explain what happens to the body when you drink too young and too much.

• Set rules – the most important one being not to drink. Be sure to discuss this rule and agree on the consequences if not followed.

• Teach them to say ‘no’ and that not everyone drinks.

• Ask them how they feel about you drinking alcohol. What attitudes have they already formed about it? It will help you reflect on your own drinking behaviours and open up the lines of communication.

Remember: kids absorb your drinking.

Australian research shows that in 2011 around 63% of 17 year olds were not considered to be current drinkers, so this finding may challenge the belief that everybody is doing it. However of those 17 year olds who were considered to be current drinkers, around 19% drank in a risky way (more than 4 drinks) at least once in the week before they were surveyed.

That means there’s only a minority of kids who are binge drinking – but they’re still obvious and influential.

Some young people ‘preload’ to save money – quickly drinking

Find out more facts about drinking

DRUG AND ALCHOHOL AWARENESS

Don’t turn a foolie this Schoolies Schoolies. It’s a little word for a big week. It’s the holiday Year 12s all over Australia have been waiting for. But above all, it’s the chance to celebrate the end of school…finally. Hold up. Before you race out there, make sure you’re prepared. Not knowing the risks or what to do in an emergency can turn things ugly, fast.

Wherever you’re planning on spending schoolies, it’s always good to have a plan. Around alcohol people can change and the risks are high.

So here are a few tips for a fun, safe Schoolies Week: • Let your parents know where you’re staying and who you’re going with.

• Keep in contact with your parents throughout the week – so they know you’re safe (they’re less likely to hassle you then too) • Register as a school leaver with the local council (or schoolies organisation) in the area you’re visiting.

• Always have your phone on you (and charged!)

• Put your ‘in case of emergency number’ (ICE) in your phone.

• In an emergency call 000.

• Keep money aside for emergencies.

• Eat before you drink – preferably carbohydrate-rich food such as rice, bread, pasta, pizza etc.

It’ll help slow the rate your body absorbs alcohol.

• Be extra cautious with drinks.

Avoid drinks with high alcohol content and beware of drink spiking – don’t let your drink out of your sight.

• Pace your alcohol intake and hydrate with non-alcoholic drinks like water.

• Stay with friends and keep an eye out for one another.

• Don’t drink drive or get into a car with anyone who’s been drinking.

• Avoid risky situations such as swimming after drinking or getting into arguments and fights. for more information visit “drinkwise.org.au

TOP 10 TIPS FOR PARENTS Here are 10 ways to encourage your kids to talk about drugs with you.

1

Be an active part of their lives Make sure you set aside time to spend with your kids. Take an interest in their interests and establish a routine for doing things with them.

Spending time as a family is important, like eating together every day.

When they go out, don’t be afraid to ask where they’re going or who they’ll be with.

2

Listen to your kids Showing that you’re prepared and willing to listen will help your kids feel more comfortable about listening to you. During a conversation try not to interrupt them or react in a way that will stop whatever you’re discussing. Encourage them to feel comfortable about telling you their problems, and ask for their input on family decisions to show that you value their opinions.

3

Be a role model When it comes to drugs there’s no such thing as ‘do as I say, not as I do’. If you take drugs yourself you can’t expect your kids to take your advice. It’s important not to underestimate the influence your behaviour has on them, particularly when it comes to alcohol or tobacco, or misuse of medications.

4

Be honest with them It’s natural that you won’t necessarily know everything about drugs. So while it’s important to be informed, you shouldn’t pretend to have answers to every question. Be prepared to say ‘I don’t know but I’ll find out for you’. If you’re honest and clear about where you stand, your kids will find it easier to be honest with you.

5

Pick your moment Make sure you pick the right time to discuss drugs with your kids, by looking for natural opportunities as they arise. This might be when you’re all watching TV, or when they’re talking about someone at their school or in their friendship group.

6

Be calm When it comes to talking about drugs, being calm and rational is important, as well as not overreacting.

Make sure not to ridicule or lecture, as this could make future discussions about drugs more difficult and make your kids more resistant to talking about them at all.

7

Avoid conflict It is difficult to solve a problem where there’s a conflict. Try to see their point of view while encouraging them to understand yours. If a confrontation does develop, stop the conversation and come back to it when you’re both calmer.

8

Keep talking Once you’ve had a discussion about drugs it’s important to have another. Start talking to your kids about drugs early, and be willing to talk to your kids about the issue at any time.

9

Set clear boundaries Generally kids expect and appreciate some ground rules. By actively involving them in setting the rules you can encourage them to take more responsibility for sticking to them.

Once you’ve decided on these rules, enforce them, and let your kids know the consequences of breaking them.

Discuss and agree to ways your kids will act if they find themselves in situations where drugs are present.

For example, let them know that you’ll always collect them if they need you to, whatever the hour.

However, make it absolutely clear that you would rather they didn’t put themselves in a situation where they are likely to be exposed to drugs in the first place.

10

Focus on positives Be sure to reward your kids’ good behaviour and emphasise the things they do well.

Encourage them to feel good about themselves and let them know that they deserve respect and should also respect themselves.

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Approximately 260 children die and 58,000 are hospitalised every year due to unintentional injury in Australia There is no higher priority than protecting our children and Police Legacy* continues their commitment to child safety. The greatest tool available to combat youth vulnerability is through knowledge. This handbook is for every family and includes everything we need as a community to protect our most valuable and vulnerable resource – our children.

Child Safety HANDBOOK

*all funds go to Police Legacy NSW & VIC

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