Hospitals report cases of fractures, burns and poisonings during school holidays

Parents and caregivers are being urged to remain extra alert as the 2025 school holidays enter their final weeks, following a rise in childhood injuries reported by hospitals.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services issued an urgent safety alert yesterday after recording an increase in emergency admissions involving children.

Reported cases include fractures from falls, severe burns and accidental poisoning, many of which occurred inside or around homes.

In a statement, the Ministry said the spike was linked to common holiday activities and a lack of close supervision.

“Children playing without close supervision have fallen from trees, furniture and unsafe structures,” the statement said.

“Others have been injured while experimenting with homemade items such as bamboo guns.”

The Ministry also reported cases of burns caused by hot drinks and pots left within reach, as well as incidents where children accidentally swallowed household chemicals.

“To all parents, grandparents and guardians — child safety is a shared responsibility,” the statement said.

“A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret. Every adult must actively supervise children, secure hazards in the home and be ready to act in an emergency.”

Road safety concerns

Road safety continues to be a major risk during the holiday period, with parents reminded to ensure children use age‑appropriate car seats, booster seats or seat belts on every trip, regardless of distance or duration.

Drivers are also urged to slow down in residential areas, stay focused and avoid distractions.

Parents are encouraged to teach children basic road safety and to supervise them closely near roads and driveways.

Preventing common injuries

To reduce the risk of falls, the Ministry advises securing bookshelves and televisions, locking windows, and installing safety gates on stairs.

Children should be encouraged to climb only in safe environments such as playgrounds.

Burns and scalds can be prevented by keeping children away from stoves and fireplaces, turning pot handles inward and placing hot drinks away from table edges.

Caregivers are also advised to always test bath water before use.

All medicines and household chemicals should be stored in their original containers, locked away and out of children’s sight. Hazardous liquids should never be transferred into drink bottles.

In the event of a burn, the Ministry recommends cooling the affected area under running water for 20 minutes. For suspected poisoning, parents and caregivers are urged to call 911 immediately.

The Ministry is urging families to remain vigilant throughout the remainder of the holiday period to prevent avoidable injuries and ensure children return to school safely.