TFI Celebrates Child Safety & Protection Month

At TFI, we believe that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment. November is Child Safety and Protection Month, a vital time to raise awareness about the safety and well-being of our children. We’re excited to share our essential tips to empower families to create a secure space. Whether at home, outdoors or online, our practical advice helps ensure that children thrive in a safe and loving atmosphere.

Key Safety Tips for Families:

Home Safety 

1. Childproofing: Install safety gates on stairs and keep sharp objects out of reach. Use corner protectors on furniture and secure heavy items on walls. 
2. Fire Safety: Install smoke detectors and establish an escape plan. 
3. Poison Control: Store medications, cleaning supplies and toxic substances out of reach. 

Outdoor Safety 

1. Supervision: Always keep a watchful eye on children when they are outside. 
2. Stranger Danger: Teach children to recognize safe adults and avoid engaging with strangers. 
3. Traffic Safety: Use crosswalks, instruct them to look both ways and emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts.

Online Safety 

1. Privacy Settings: Implement privacy settings on devices and social media platforms. 
2. Stranger Interactions: Teach children to never share personal information online.
3. Screen Time Limits: Set appropriate screen time limits and monitor their online activities. 

Emergency Preparations 

1. Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts accessible and teach children how to call for help. 
2. First Aid Knowledge: Educate children on basic first aid skills and how to respond in emergencies. 
3. Safety Drills: Regularly practice emergency drills for situations such as fires or natural disasters. 

Health & Wellness 

1. Healthy Habits: Encourage regular handwashing and a balanced diet.
2. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule routine medical and dental appointments. 
3. Mental Health: Foster open communication about feelings and emotions, encouraging children to take responsibility for their own safety. 

As we observe Child Safety and Protection Month, TFI urges families to incorporate these essential safety practices into their daily routines. It is imperative to recognize the possible dangers that many children face in their everyday lives and for parents and adults to take precautions to prevent unintentional injuries or worse. By working together, we can create a secure and nurturing environment for youth to thrive.  

TFI is always looking for dedicated and caring individuals to become foster parents and help keep kids safe. To learn more on how you can become a foster parent visit  How To Become A Foster Parent – TFI and select your state to start making a difference! 

To learn more tips about Child Safety & Protection Month, please visit our Child Safety Checklist with a downloadable checklist. 

For more tips and resources on Child Safety and Protection Month, please visit [Child Safety Tips & Resources | Children’s Bureau]. 

TFI is a leading child welfare agency providing experience, compassion, quality services and care. We have more than 60 years of experience strengthening families. We provide various services to the community, including foster and kinship care, case management, adoption, clinical and behavioral health, prevention and family preservation, residential, and numerous other child welfare services.