Caregivers urged to be on summer guard

Child safety authorities are reminding parents and caregivers about extra vigilance and awareness of potential risks to children this festive season.

National manager of Child Matters, New Zealand's child abuse prevention specialists, Amanda Meynell said children were exposed to different situations during a holiday period, which could put them at risk.

Ms Meynell advised people to think about keeping children safe during Christmas and New Year.

"It doesn't mean wrapping your kids in cotton wool. It is simply about thinking ahead and putting safety plans in place for both yourself and your children."

Plunket also advised that parents and caregivers take extra precaution to ensure their children's safety, particularly in the sun, water, driveways, camping grounds and other outdoor areas.

Plunket national child safety advisor Sue Campbell said summer was a wonderful time with young children outside, and there were lots of new things to learn at the beach, garden or great outdoors.

"However, outside environments, just like indoor ones, require some safety precautions to keep young ones safe. Little children are very vulnerable and very dependent on the good care and supervision of responsible and attentive adults."

Visit www.childmatters.org.nz or www.plunket.org.nz for tips.