Accident prevention
Each year, over 1,000 children in Somerset go to hospital because of accidents like falls, burns or swallowing objects. Nearly half are from falls.
Children and young people with SEND may have a higher risk of accidents. This can be because of differences in movement, communication, learning, or how they understand danger.
Your home may feel safe, but most accidents for children under 5 happen at home. There are simple things you can do to lower risks and keep your child safe.
Many organisations offer advice, including easy read guides, to help make everyday life safer.
Occupational Therapy Service
This service shares ideas to help keep your child safe at home and in the community.
Their leaflets show equipment that can help, such as:
- safety items for the home
- car safety supports
- tools for children with additional needs
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
They give advice on staying safe at home, outdoors and on the road.
You can find information about:
- fire safety at home
- water safety
- railway safety
- fireworks safety
They offer a free home safety visit (British Sign Language support available) for:
- families with children under 18
- people with disabilities, mobility needs or sensory loss
You can find out more in the Local Offer Live video.
They also support families who are worried about fire-setting behaviour through the Firesetter Intervention Programme.
Somerset Road Safety
Somerset Road Safety works to reduce accidents on the roads.
They offer:
- safety advice in clear, simple formats
- training for children and young people
- activity sheets and resources
- programmes such as Fit2ride and Bikeability
These can help if your child needs extra time or support to learn road safety skills.
More safety advice
Some other organisations offer advice:
- Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) – home safety advice and free resources
- RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) – advice on safety at home, travel and play. Including support learning road safety skills for children with SEND.
- NHS – baby and toddler safety guidance
- National Autistic Society – advice on why road safety can be harder and how to support your child.
- Speakup Safety Circles – simple resources, videos and tips to help people with learning disabilities stay safe.
These resources use simple words, pictures and step‑by‑step guides. They can help your child learn to stay safe in a way that works for them.