Consumer Protection is urging families to stay safe as outdoor activities ramp up in the summer months.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Gary Newcombe said that so far this year, seven Australians had been killed riding quad bikes, which easily roll over when used on rough ground, at high speed or carrying heavy or uneven loads.
“Since October 2021, all new and imported second-hand quad bikes need to be fitted with operator protection devices and meet minimum stability requirements,” Mr Newcombe said.
“They must also meet United States and European standards and come with a tag so consumers can compare the safety of models prior to purchase,” he said.
“Despite quad bikes being safer thanks to the new regulations, the safest option is to avoid letting children ride them altogether.”
He said visiting a farm or a rural property during the summer holidays could be an exciting experience for many children, however what might seem like a harmless ride on a quad bike could easily turn into an accident with tragic consequences.
“Due to their size and inexperience, children should never drive or be a passenger on quad bikes intended for adults,” Mr Newcombe said.
There were also dangers closer to home during warm weather, particularly in the backyard and around swimming pools.
He said statistics from Royal Life Saving Australia showed 339 people lost their lives to drowning across Australia in 2021-22, including 32 children under 14.
“Up to 35 per cent of drowning deaths in children occurred in a swimming pool, so we want everyone to keep water safety front of mind,” Mr Newcombe said.
“There is no substitute for adult supervision, so parents and carers should keep constant watch,” he said.
“Flotation and aquatic toys are not safety devices, so never assume that children are out of harm’s way in the water while wearing them.”
He said a popular alternative to in-ground pools were portable pools, but they could be just as dangerous.
“Many parents and carers might not realise the significant drowning risks and potential need for fencing if a portable pool contains more than 30 centimetres of water,” Mr Newcombe said.
Trampolines were often bought as Christmas gifts, but they could be hazardous with hundreds of children hospitalised each year from accidents.
“Only allow one child to use a trampoline at a time and supervise their use. Put padding on the frame and remove any hazards located nearby,” Mr Newcombe said.
