Protect Your Children from Injuries 

National Childhood Injury Prevention Week is September 1-7

NEW CITY, NY, - Injuries are the leading cause of death for children in New York State. Each year, more than 18,000 youths ages 19 and younger are hospitalized due to preventable injuries. To raise awareness, the Rockland County Department of Health joins the state and nation in observing National Childhood Injury Prevention Week, September 1–7, 2025.

This annual observance underscores the importance of creating awareness for parents and caregivers to take simple steps to keep children safe at home, at play, and on the go.

“Most injuries can be prevented with a few easy safety measures,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “From car seats to home safety, small actions can make a big difference.”

Here are a few safety tips from Safe Kids Worldwide to help protect children every day:

• Check your child’s car seat. Tug at the base where the seat belt attaches. If it moves more than one inch, it needs to be tightened.
• Secure TVs and furniture. Mount flat-screen TVs to the wall or place heavier models on low, stable bases to prevent tip-overs.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly. Replace batteries every year and the entire device every 10 years.
• Keep medications and small batteries out of reach. Store medicines up high and locked away. Be especially careful with coin-sized button batteries, which can be extremely dangerous if swallowed.
• Limit distractions. Whether driving, walking, or supervising kids at play, put away phones and focus on your child’s safety.

The Rockland County Healthy Neighborhoods Program offers free home visits for eligible residents—including low-income families, seniors, and at-risk households—to identify and address health and safety concerns, including childhood injury prevention.

Information is available in English, Spanish, and French/Creole. Families may also receive life-saving resources while supplies last, including:

• Smoke alarms (with flashing light and audible sound for people who are hard of hearing)
• Carbon monoxide alarms
• Child safety kits with cabinet locks and outlet shock stops

Residents seeking more information or wishing to schedule a free home visit may call 845-364-3290, email us at HealthyNeighborhoods@co.rockland.ny.us or visit https://rcklnd.us/DOH-Healthy-Neighborhoods.

For more ways to protect your family, visit Safe Kids Worldwide and the Child Injury Prevention in New York State.

###

Follow us on X: @rockhealth
Follow us on Instagram: Instagram.com/rocklandhealth
Like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/rockhealth
Visit our website: RocklandCountyNY.gov