VITAL messages on how to prevent accidents are being given to parents by emergency crews as part of Child Safety Week.

Firefighters and staff from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service will be out and about until June 29 showing families how to avoid dangers.

Keith Brooks, head of prevention and protection at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters attend many incidents involving children, and see first hand the problems that surround them, both in the home and on the road.

“We need to do everything we can to prevent accidents involving children occurring so I would encourage people to please take the time to have a look on our website and follow our safety advice.”

Incidents involving children account for more than 2,000 hospital admissions every week and are a leading cause of death for children in the UK.

Firefighters urge parents to make sure:

• there is a working smoke alarm in your home.

• child car seats are fitted correctly in cars.

• you don't let children near fire or matches. 

• you don't let your child play or swim in open water. 

• be extra careful while walking to school along busy roads.

• keep children well away from barbeques, cookers or hot surfaces. 

• young people should take care when using hair straighteners. Always put them on a hard, flat surface when in use and remember to turn them off.

For more information about child safety visit cheshirefire.gov.uk.