Parental Awareness and Practice of Safety Measures to Prevent Home Accidents in Under-Fives: A Study of Saki West Local Government Area, Nigeria

Abstract

Home accidents remain a major public health concern globally, as they are common causes of morbidity, disability, and mortality. This study assessed parents’ awareness and utilization of home safety precautions for the prevention of home accidents among children under five in Saki West Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. A quantitative descriptive survey design was employed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered in markets, churches, and mosques. The data were analyzed with SPSS version 23 using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings from this study revealed that all respondents (100%) demonstrated adequate knowledge of home accident prevention precautions. However, 82.5% reported not having received any form of training or attended workshops on child home safety. These results highlight the need for targeted health education interventions to enhance parents’ practical application of safety measures. Strengthening parental awareness and active utilization of safety precautions is essential to reducing the burden of home accidents among children under five.