Beterem warns of harm to children during High Holidays

The percentage of those injured in road accidents during the holiday season is 56%, significantly higher than the 32% of road casualties during the entire year.

By JUDY SIEGEL-ITZKOVICH
Rosh Hashana (photo credit: REUTERS)
Rosh Hashana
(photo credit: REUTERS)
After 37 children – much higher than average – were killed in unintentional accidents during June and July, Beterem (Israel Center for Child Safety and Health) said they fear a significant increase in deaths during the High Holidays. During the Hebrew month of Tishrei, said Beterem, according to previous experience, there is a large rise in the number of children’s injuries compared to the rest of the year.
The percentage of those injured in road accidents during the holiday season is 56%, significantly higher than the 32% of road casualties during the entire year. According to the organization’s data, there were 837 cases of significant harm to children and teenagers during the month of Tishrei in the years 2010 to 2016; of these, 20 children died.
About a third of those hurt during the High Holidays were infants and toddlers from birth to four years; nearly a quarter were aged five to nine, 23% aged 10 to 14 and 17% are teens aged 15 to 17.
During the holidays, boys account for 70% of those hurt.
Beterem director-general Orly Silbinger said on Tuesday that unfortunately, there has been an increase in the number of children’s injuries during the holidays because they are out of kindergartens and school most of the time. “Most accidents can be prevented. It is important that parents ensure they and their children recognize and obey the safety rules,” she said.
She called on parents to ensure their children’s safety on the road and practice safe crossing without playing with their smartphones; to wear a helmet while cycling; to keep hot drinks and foods that pose a choking danger away from small children.