By: Cameron McAloon
More than 50 children in Western Australia are injured in cot-related incidents each year, prompting a new education campaign on second-hand cots.
Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the campaign could prevent the sale or trade of cots that do not comply with Australian safety standards.
“It’s important that these cots are examined carefully and checks are carried out to prevent any injuries or deaths,” he said in a statement.
Kidsafe chief executive Scott Phillips said cots can present a danger of choking or suffocating to babies, while toddlers can harm themselves falling as they try to climb out of them.
“On average 27 children a year in WA die from some sort of accidental injury, and all of these are preventable,” he said.
“It’s important people know there are affordable options out there and to look for the Australian standard.
“No-one sets out for their kid to have an accident.”
Posters, videos and a smartphone app will be used to get the message of cot safety out to parents and the wider community.
Acting Director for Consumer Protection, Lanie Chopping, said the campaign would encourage parents to make safe choices for their children.
“It’s illegal for retailers to sell cots that are not compliant with mandatory safety standards,” she said.
“It’s dangerous to pass cots on to family and friends if they’re not compliant with those standards.”
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This post originally appeared on ABC News.