1.   It is now a West Virginia law that all children under the age of three be secured in a car seat appropriate for their age. Older children and adolescents must be restrained with a seat belt. Automobile accidents are the number one cause of deaths in children and the use of car seats or a seat-belt makes a tremendous difference. 

2.   See that crib sides are up and latched whenever you turn away from the baby. 

3.   Do not leave the baby unattended on anything from which he may fall. 

4.   Permit only safe, unbreakable toys without sharp edges or small parts which might break off and choke the baby. 

5.   Position pots and pans on the stove in a way that the children cannot grab the handles. Freshly poured, hot liquids such as coffee and soup can cause severe burns. 

6.   Cover all electrical outlets when not in use; mock plugs are available at hardware stores. 

7.   Keep medicines secured in a location out of sight and reach of children. This applies to all cleaning supplies as well. 

8.   Poisonings in the home are a frequent cause of deaths. The number for West Virginia Poison Control is (800) 222-1222.  The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that syrup of ipecac no longer be routinely used in case of poisoning. 

9.   Have an approved smoke detector in the sleeping area. Household fires and smoke inhalation cause many needless deaths every year. Check batteries frequently.