Paediatric nurse reveals the biggest winter hazards parents of young kids underestimate

Is it time for you to do a safety check around the home? 

As we face chilly weather, it's essential to ensure our little ones stay warm and safe at night. 

Here are some tips and hazards to avoid when keeping your kids cosy during the winter months.

Wheat Bags

Did you know that wheat (and other types of grain) bags can be a fire hazard?

Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters have responded to numerous residential fires caused by overheated wheat bags or wheat bags used to warm bedding.

The ACCC advises that microwaveable heat packs should never be used in bed. The heat trapped by blankets can cause the packs to ignite, posing a burn risk, especially to children’s delicate skin. These incidents have also been linked to house fires.

Safety Tips for Wheat Bags:

• Only purchase wheat bags with clear heating instructions and follow them carefully.
• Never overheat wheat bags in the microwave or leave them unattended while heating.
• Be cautious with wheat bags bought from markets, fairs, or craft stalls, and ensure they come with heating instructions.
• Allow wheat bags to cool on a non-combustible surface like a kitchen sink before reheating, which can take around two hours.
• Discard wheat bags that smell burned or charred.
• Avoid using wheat bags under blankets or bedding where heat can be trapped.
• Double-check the microwave timer when heating your wheat bag to prevent overheating.
• Regularly inspect your wheat bag for wear and tear or scorching. As wheat bags age, their fillings dry out and become combustible.
• Cool wheat bags on a non-combustible surface before storing.

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Is it time for you to do a winter safety check around the home? Image: iStock

RELATED: Mum’s warning to parents using oil heaters

Hot Water Bottles

Hot water bottles cause severe burns to 200 people in Australia each year. Here’s how to use them safely:

Safety Tips for Hot Water Bottles:

• Use hot water bottles only to warm the bed, then empty and remove them before getting in.
• Keep hot water bottles out of reach of babies and children.
• Check the ‘daisy wheel’ date on hot water bottles and replace any older than three years.
• Avoid overfilling or using boiling water—hot tap water is sufficient.
• Use a fitted cover or wrap the bottle to prevent direct skin contact.
• Do not leave a hot water bottle on one body part for more than 20 minutes.
• Examine hot water bottles for leaks, cracks, or damage before use and discard any that are compromised.
• Remove hot water bottles from the bed before sleeping to avoid accidental bursts.
• Hot water bottles should be stored upside down with the stopper removed in a dry, dark place. Before storage, they should be completely dry inside and out.
• Remember, hot water bottles can cause severe burns, especially to children and older adults with thinner, more delicate skin.

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RELATED: ‘I almost burned down my house with a winter item’

Electric Blankets

When storing electric blankets after winter, roll them up instead of folding them. Before using them, inspect them for frayed fabric, exposed elements, damaged cords, or scorch marks. Discard any damaged blankets to prevent electric shock or fire hazards.

Electric blankets or electric throw rugs should never be used on babies. If you choose to use them for older children or teens, make sure you follow the safety tips and instructions carefully.

Safety Tips for Electric Blankets:

• Check electric blankets for frayed cords or worn coverings before use each year.
• Don’t sleep with the electric blanket on—use it to warm the bed and then turn it off.
• Avoid placing heavy items on the bed when the electric blanket is on.

Safe Ways to Keep Kids Warm at Night:

• Dress little ones appropriately for room temperature using high-TOG sleep bags or suits.
• Opt for layers and extra blankets. (For babies, it is best to use lightweight blankets that can be easily added or removed according to room temperature. Make the bed so the baby sleeps at the foot of the cot, reducing the risk of the face or head becoming covered by bedding.)

And Know How to Treat Burns!

Accidents can happen, so it’s crucial to be prepared. Book a baby + child CPR & First Aid class today today to learn how to treat burns and other emergencies.

Stay warm and safe this winter!

Sarah Hunstead is a Paediatric Nurse and founder of CPR Kids. She is also the author of  ‘A Life. A Finger. A Pea Up a Nose’ CPR Kids Essential First Aid Guide for Babies and Children.

Originally published as Paediatric nurse reveals the biggest winter hazards parents of young kids underestimate