BEWARE OF WALKING RINGS

“Accidents with walking rings have caused some serious injuries in babies over the years,” says René Grobler, Netcare’s national quality and systems manager for trauma and emergency. René explains that 47 babies were treated for injuries ranging from minor to critical at Netcare emergency departments since 2012, following accidents with walking rings. Of these, 4 percent had been critically injured, and 72 percent had serious to moderate injuries.

“A walking ring makes it possible for a baby to propel themselves at a rate of up to a meter per second. In the blink of an eye, your child could be sent careening downstairs or head-first into a wall. The wheels can hook on carpets or furniture, adding further potential for accidents.” “Most of the injuries recorded were to the babies’ head or face. Childhood head injuries can be very serious with potentially lasting consequences, and medical attention should always be sought immediately.”