NORTHERN IRELAND — The Public Health Agency of Northern Ireland launched Child Safety Week 2026, which runs from 1 to 7 June, with the theme 'making prevention possible' to promote home safety for children under five. The agency is encouraging families to adopt simple, practical measures to reduce unintentional injuries in the home during the awareness week.
Unintentional injuries are one of the leading causes of death and serious injury among children in Northern Ireland, with those under five facing the highest risk. Within this age group, 90% of hospital emergency admissions result from five common hazards: choking, suffocation and strangulation; falls; poisoning; burns and scalds; and drowning.
“Preventing accidents doesn't always require big changes — simple, practical steps taken every day can help protect children and reduce risks,” said Diane McIntyre, Lead for Health and Wellbeing Improvement at the Public Health Agency. She added, “We know that life with young children is busy and full on, and it is impossible to supervise every moment. Creating a safe home environment can help ease that pressure. Simple steps — like keeping potential hazards out of reach or taking a quick look around — can help make everyday spaces safer for everyone.”
McIntyre noted that on average, two people in Northern Ireland die each week due to accidents at home. “Child Safety Week provides a valuable opportunity to raise awareness among families, communities and organisations about the potential hazards in everyday life. Whether it's a blind cord near a cot, a button battery left on a coffee table, or the risk of hot liquids; dangers can arise quickly. Taking a few moments to reduce these risks can help prevent accidents before they happen.”
The Public Health Agency funds the Home Safety Check Scheme, delivered across Northern Ireland by 11 local councils. The program offers free home safety checks to families with children under five, vulnerable individuals, and older adults, providing tailored safety advice and free safety equipment based on assessment and local availability.