Play Safe this School Holiday

It's the holidays and time to party, right? You can enjoy new experiences, but don't be pushed by your friends into taking mad risks or dares.

Remember, this year about 10,000 children and young people will be permanently disabled in an accident. Here are some tips from the Child Accident Prevention Trust about how to have fun and stay safe.

Keep Dry
Always go to the river or canal with a grown-up you know well. There could be lots of dangerous things hidden under the water, so don't swim, jump, or dive in. Locks and weirs can look like great places to play, but they are deep and dangerous.

On your bike
Your head and brain aren't as tough as you think. Wear a properly fitted cycle helmet when cycling. Also make sure you wear elbow and knee guards if you're skateboarding or skating. It might be cool playing around on your skateboard or skates, but it can also be dangerous. Do it away from traffic and take care around pedestrians.

Home Front
Remember kitchen knives, even cutlery, can be very sharp.

In the event of a fire, extra seconds can make the difference between life and death. Prepare an escape plan with your parents in case there is ever a fire in your home. Check with your parents that your home has a smoke alarm and if not ask them to buy one.

Know where you are
Cars can be lethal weapons. Belt up properly on every trip and make sure your friends do too. Remember it's tempting to move on to new places that you don't know very well when you're having a good time. Make sure you keep track of where you are and the person picking you up knows where to meet you.

On the buses
Buses can be bumpy and are always stopping and starting. Stay seated and don't be tempted to walk around. Once off the bus, don't take chances while crossing the road. Walk away after getting off, or wait until it moves off before crossing the road. Never cross the road in front of a bus.

On the roads
When you're walking, cross roads at the safest place you can - using marked places like a zebra or pelican crossing wherever you can.