Each year, more than 7,000 children are killed and another 50,000 or more are permanently disabled by unintentional injury.

In fact, more children die from preventable injury than from all childhood diseases combined.

The opportunity for injury is even greater during the summer months when kids are out of school and much more active.

In order to ensure the safety of your child, Children&8217;s Health System encourages you to observe safety as part of your summertime fun.

Be aware of where your children are and what they are doing. Don&8217;t leave even older children unattended for extended periods of time. It only takes a few minutes for a child to wander off or for an injury to occur. Also, teach your children to be aware of their surroundings. Kids that are busy playing may not notice vehicles passing by, dogs that are unleashed or other dangers nearby that can lead to trips to the emergency room.

If your family spends time at a pool, lake or at the beach be sure to observe water safety precautions.

Making sure that safety doesn&8217;t take a vacation will help to ensure that your family has a safe and injury free summer.

For more information on this and other children&8217;s health and safety issues, visit Children&8217;s advocacy web site at www.helpyourchild.com