Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading
The Honourable Peter Lawlor

Monday, October 26, 2009

Kidsafe Day a child safety reminder

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor has congratulated Kidsafe Queensland on reaching its 30 year milestone today, on National Kidsafe Day (26 October).

On a day to remind Australians of the importance of childhood injury prevention, Mr Lawlor called for parents, industry and government to continue the fight to reduce child injuries.

“In the 30 years since the establishment of Kidsafe, childhood deaths from injury have halved,” Mr Lawlor said.

“The Office of Fair Trading works closely with Kidsafe to ensure child-related products are as safe as possible through its product safety program.

“Fair Trading inspectors are constantly checking child-related products to ensure all toys and equipment pass the appropriate safety standards.

“Just as importantly, the Office of Fair Trading also work with manufacturers and retailers to ensure they understand the safety benchmarks required.

“We regularly conduct safety campaigns to raise awareness among Queenslanders about buying and using products safely.

“Recently, we launched a campaign to encourage awareness of the dangers of blind and curtain cords.

“As part of this campaign, we are giving away free safety toggles to parents and carers, which enable hanging cords to split when pressure is applied to them, removing any strangulation risk.”

“Queenslanders can order their free toggles by calling 13 13 04 or visiting www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.

Mr Lawlor said bunk beds were also products that are often involved in high numbers of serious injuries.

“Although standards have been in place since 2002, we are urging consumers to seek out safer alternatives or to throw out older bunk beds that do not have guardrails,” he said.

“Consumers should also check with accommodation providers prior to making holiday bookings to make sure bunk beds are safe if in use.

Child safety is a priority area for the Queensland government and we look forward to working closely with Kidsafe over the years to come.”

Further information about child safety is available at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au.

Minister’s office: 3225 1005 / 3224 2002

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