Don't let the Easter bunny be your downfall this weekend

21 April 2011

Media release

Don't let the Easter bunny be your downfall this weekend

During 2010, 470 people had accidents at home involving either eggs or rabbits. While no evidence shows that these injuries increase over Easter, ACC has found that the chances of injuring yourself around the home do increase during public holidays.

In 2010 alone, there were 7,900 claims for home injuries over Easter. That’s an average of nearly 2,000 home injuries a day compared with a daily average of 1,700 for the year as a whole.

“Nearly half of all home injuries are caused by slips trips and falls, most commonly from steps, stairs and ladders,” says Peter Wood, Head of Injury Prevention and Insurance Products, ACC. "With many of us on holiday over Easter or visiting other people’s homes, being unfamiliar with the layout and conditions of the home can increase your chances of a fall."

If you are planning some DIY over Easter; heading away; or just staying at home; here are a few tips to make sure you can enjoy your Easter eggs with your family - and not in an accident and emergency ward.
• When using a ladder, ask someone else to hold it steady and make sure the ladder is stable before climbing up. Always keep at least three points of contact, for example two feet and one hand.
• Make sure stairs are well-lit and clear of obstacles such as toys, sports equipment and shoes. Take stairs one at a time and use the handrail.
• Put safety catches on cupboards holding poisons or knives, and keep cupboard doors closed so you don’t walk into them. Clean up any spills as soon as you see them.
• If travelling by plane with a small child, take a car seat with you or make sure there is one available at your destination.
If you’d like more tips, visit acc.co.nz. Have a safe and happy Easter!

ENDS

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