The dangers that claimed those innocent, young lives are very real, very visible and completely avoidable. The phenomenon is not peculiar to T&T, though the recent rise in such incidents is unusual. Global statistics show that every year preventable injuries kill almost a million children around the world. But well within the reach of all responsible adults are affordable, proven practices that can save the life of a child. Public education campaigns, stronger laws, stricter enforcement and the resulting safer environments can make all the difference.
While it is tempting to speak of evil forces attacking the country’s children in the face of so many tragic deaths through freak accidents etc, it may also be dangerous. To talk of evil forces as the Rev Daniel Teelucksingh and Minister in the Ministry of the People Vernella Alleyne-Toppin have done offers an explanation for the otherwise apparently inexplicable sudden rise in such incidents. But it also presents a danger by suggesting that these accidents are inflicted by some invisible outside force, that cannot be predicted and therefore cannot be prevented.
In fact, a common feature among many of these deaths is lack of adult care and attention. In too many cases small children have been left alone in circumstances where obvious dangers have presented themselves, such as pools or access to matches or lighters. Small children are too young and curious to understand or resist potentially dangerous situations. For them, even ordinary objects can be fatal. So a responsible parent or caregiver will automatically scan the child’s environment for possible dangers and remove or neutralise them, or else keep a close watch on their young charges.
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