For the Safety of Canadian Children and Youth

Jane Heath teaches psychology at Ryerson Polytechnical University in
Toronto.

This book successfully translates a wealth of statistical data into
clear and compelling recommendations for various measures designed to
improve the safety of children under 20. A general profile is given of
each problem area. These areas include injuries related to motor
vehicles, recreation, playgrounds, home environments, fire, falls,
poisoning, choking, suffocation, drowning, workplaces, homicide,
assault, neglect, and suicide. Included in the profiles is information
on the extent of the problem, age, sex, regional and historical trends,
and recommendations for injury prevention. Statistics in tabular form
and extensive references are provided for each problem area.

The book’s approach to injury control focuses on two areas: (i) the
human factor, which includes the physical and technological environment,
as well as the social, economic, and legislative background; and (ii)
the pre-event, event, and post-event contributors to injury and injury
outcome. This approach serves to highlight the multiple factors involved
in any single injury, and the importance of mixed strategies in
preventing injuries or lessening their severity. The point is powerfully
made that parents or guardians cannot realistically be held solely
responsible for their child’s safety.

Well organized and clearly written, this book should be required
reading for anyone whose actions and decisions affect the safety of
children and youth, including parents and guardians, school and daycare
personnel, architects, urban planners, manufacturers, police officers,
firefighters, and legislators.