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Most parents work hard to keep their children healthy – immunizations, nutritious meals, regular checkups. But many parents don’t realize that unintentional injuries are responsible for more deaths and disability to children than all childhood diseases combined.
Many people are unaware of potential dangers. Often measures are not taken that could prevent or drastically reduce the seriousness of unintentional injuries.
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Each year approximately 7,200 U.S. children are killed and at least 50,000 are permanently disabled by preventable injuries. These injuries cost society $165 billion annually.
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This year, one in four (approximately 13 million) children 14 and under will be hurt seriously enough to require medical attention.
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Education and prevention are the keys to reducing these numbers.
The SAFE KIDS Washoe County Coalition was established in 2000 as part of a growing nationwide effort to find ways to reduce unintentional injuries.
As part of the National SAFE KIDS Campaign, the SAFE KIDS Washoe County Coalition brings together people and organizations interested in the well-being of children. Nationally, there are over 220 coalitions representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
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To address the most prevalent childhood injuries in Washoe County through target programs.
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To establish uniform injury data collection methods.
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To increase public awareness of ways to prevent childhood injuries.
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To support collaborative efforts to community agencies in their effort to prevent childhood injury.
Through community action, public awareness and education, technology, and public policy initiatives, state and local coalitions are creating safer homes and communities for children. Injury problems specific to their areas are targeted. Whether it’s bicycle and helmet safety, the use of child restraints in vehicles, or building safer playgrounds, coalitions are closing the injury prevention gap in communities.
The mission of the National SAFE KIDS Campaign is clear – to prevent deaths and injuries to children ages 14 and under from:
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Motor vehicle crashes and pedestrian injuries
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Poisoning and choking
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Bike crashes
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Fire and scald burns
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Drownings
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Unintentional shootings
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Falls
The SAFE KIDS Washoe County’s success is based on the unique power of many local organizations that bring together a cross-section of community leadership including:
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Hospitals
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Paramedics
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Medical and health professionals
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Law enforcement officers
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Firefighters
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Educators
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Businesses and Casinos
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Public policy makers
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Parents and other volunteers
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KIDS
In 1998, REMSA’s KidCare (babysitting training for children ages 11-15) and Point of Impact (for child safety seat inspections and replacement) programs were implemented for childhood injury prevention. The Point of Impact program has received the national “Star of Life” award from the American Ambulance Association and was designated as a “Silver Star” in 1998 and 1999 by Truckee Meadows Tomorrow. The success of these programs positively influenced the National SAFE KIDS Campaign in their designation of Washoe County as a SAFE KIDS Coalition.
450 Edison Way 
Reno,
Nevada 89502 (775)858-5700 Fax
(775)858-5720
Schwartz