Prepare for kid-safe holiday shopping

The holiday shopping season is here. As you are enjoying the season, shopping and fighting the crowds, don't forget to put safety first.

Children's Hospital of Wisconsin sees numerous children every year with injuries related to shopping carts. Head injuries account for two-thirds of the injuries related to shopping cart falls.

Children also can suffer cuts, bruises, broken bones, concussions and internal injuries when they jump or fall from a shopping cart. In addition, if the cart overturns as a child is climbing out of the basket, he or she may be hit by the items in the cart and the cart itself. Getting pinched in the folding mechanism of the seat or getting fingers or toes caught in the wheels are two other common injuries.

Not only should you be aware of what your child is doing, but you also need to be aware of what people around you are doing, especially during peak shopping hours. During the holiday shopping season, other shoppers may not be watching for children. They can put your child at risk for running into or being hit by shopping carts.

Children age 5 and younger are at greatest risk, accounting for two-thirds of all shopping cart-related injuries. In addition, a child left unattended is at greater risk for shopping cart-related injuries. More than 80 percent of parents leave their child unattended at least once during a shopping trip.

Follow these tips to shop safely with your children this holiday season:

• Always use safety belts provided to restrain children in shopping cart seats.
• Consider bringing a harness or safety belt with you when shopping in case one is not provided. These can be purchased at several local stores.
• Keep your child occupied with a favorite toy or book.
• Always stay close to the shopping cart.
• Do not let your child stand in the shopping cart.
• Never let a child push or steer the shopping cart, especially when another child is inside.