Staying Safe in the Classroom

WCSC Offers Tips to create a safe learning environment

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Aug 20, 2010, 10:23 ET

NEW YORK, Aug. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- With summer rapidly coming to a close, early childhood education professionals are busy preparing for the pitter patter of little feet around school hallways. In addition to developing new reading lists and homework assignments, many teachers are also investing their time in classroom safety. According to Safe Kids USA, an estimated 14 million children are unintentionally injured each year – with as many as 25 percent of those incidents occurring in and around schools. Educational leaders can prevent some of these incidents by childproofing all classrooms to help eliminate potential hazards.

Here are a few tips to help create a safer classroom environment.

Keep the floor clear of debris and check carpets for push pins, staples or other sharp items which can cause injury.
Make sure all electrical outlets are securely covered.
Check furniture for structural stability and loose or protruding screws, nails, hinges, latches or other hardware. Sharp edges and corners should be sanded down.
Bookshelves and chests should be securely bolted to walls so they will not topple over if a child tries to climb them.
Radios, televisions and electrical or audiovisual appliances should be anchored on a shelf or table with the cord out of children's reach.
Toys and blocks should be regularly washed and disinfected, as well as inspected for broken or loose pieces.
Finally, check windows for secure locks and broken glass and make sure all furniture, desks and toys are moved away from the window area. Because of potential cord dangers, the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) is urging teachers and child care professionals to use only cordless window products in the classroom. Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today's safer products.

Parents or teachers wishing to obtain additional information can visit www.windowcoverings.org or call the WCSC toll-free phone line at 1-800-506-4636.

SOURCE Window Covering Safety Council