HOME ACCIDENTS (Infant mortality rate)

Dr Koh Lam Son asked the Acting Minister for Health whether there is an increase in the mortality rate of children and infants attributed to home accidents and what measures have been taken to reduce such mishaps.

Mr Yeo Cheow Tong: Mr Speaker, Sir, there has been a decrease in deaths from home accidents among children and infants over the last 10 years. In the late 70's an average of 19 children died each year as a result of home accidents. Over the last three years this figure has dropped to an average of 11 a year.

Vigilance in the home is the key to preventing home accidents. Towards this end, my Ministry and the National Safety Council have been working together to promote home safety. Talks on prevention of home accidents are regularly given to mothers attending the Maternal and Child Health Clinics. Talks and exhibitions on home safety are organized by the National Safety Council in schools, community centres and at other public gatherings. Talks are also given over the radio and TV on the different aspects of home safety.

Unlike road and industrial safety where laws can be enacted to enforce observation of safety rules and regulations, home safety can only be achieved, especially in the case of young children and infants, by parents being alert and taking proper precautions at home. Parents should also train their children to adopt safe habits and to understand the potential hazards in the home. 11.35 am