More awareness is needed

Abu Dhabi: The death of children, due to accidents, are events that can be prevented if parents are attentive, and ensure that the home is a safe environment for the young ones, an expert said.

"Accidents at home are not due to intentional negligence as no mother wants to badly hurt her children. It is rather inattention and a serious lack of awareness about home safety in bathrooms [bathtubs], around stairs, balconies, stoves…etc," Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi Minister of State told Gulf News when asked to comment on the role of parents in the recent spate of children's deaths form high-rise buildings.

She said children are often left to housemaids who are untrained in safety procedures, or doing multiple tasks simultaneously. "The entire society should contribute in fighting this lack of awareness. Ministries, schools, women, family organisations, community police and media should all cooperate to foster awareness among parents to check such accidents."