RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

June 18, 2004
WELSH CHILDREN MEASURE UP TO SAFETY

Children throughout Wales can now see how they measure up in safety terms thanks to a new campaign launched by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and the Wales Home Safety Council.

Around 25,000 brightly-coloured height charts in Welsh and English are being distributed during Child Safety Week, which starts on Monday (June 21).

Featuring cat and mouse cartoon characters – Meow and Eek – they use pictures and words to promote safety messages to both children and parents.

Jan Holdaway, RoSPA Home Safety Manager for Wales, said: “By putting the chart on the wall at home, youngsters will be able to pick up safety tips whenever they are passing or want to see how they are growing.

“The charts cover subjects such as being careful with hot drinks, keeping stairs clear of clutter, taking care at bath time, fire safety and dangers from poisons around the home.”

More than 180 organisations throughout Wales will be helping to distribute the charts during the next week. They will be available from places such as Sure Starts, Home Starts, local authorities, home safety groups and play groups.

As well as RoSPA and the Wales Home Safety Council, those supporting the campaign include: the Welsh Assembly Government, Firebrake Wales, Child Safe Wales, Healthcare Alliances and the Child Accident Prevention Trust, which organises Child Safety Week.

The campaign will be launched at 11am on Monday, June 21, by Welsh Assembly Member Rosemary Butler, President of the Wales Home Safety Council, at the Wales Home Safety Council annual meeting in the Guildhall, Swansea.

The charts will also be featured at a child safety seminar at the Newport Leisure Centre on Thursday, called "Check it Out! It's Child Safety Week".