Tips for Keeping Your Loved One Safe

Here are a few tips from caregivers on keeping your loved one with LGS safe:

• Use protective gear

• Wear a helmet
• Use a mattress motion monitor, nursery sleep monitors, and/or video cameras
• Use antiepileptic pillows
• Use wheelchairs or strollers, securing the brakes as needed
• Place padded bumpers or pool noodles on the edges of tables, countertops, fireplace mantels, dressers, and other furniture

• Control the environment you're in

• Block direct sunlight by drawing shades in the house, using screens in the car, carrying an umbrella, or having your child wear a hat
• Keep your child cool (mist with cool water, wear light shoes)

• Check the locks on doors—you want to make sure your loved one won't get locked in or out of certain rooms
• Identify your child as being disabled

• Have your child wear a medical bracelet
• Place stickers or signs at the front door/in the window of your house and in your car to share that there is a child with disabilities inside
• Use seat belt covers that identify your child as disabled
• In the event of an emergency, alert local emergency staff (fire department, police, emergency department) that your child is disabled

Keeping your loved one with LGS safe is an important concern that may change as he or she grows up and begins to participate in different activities in different environments. Letting your loved one take a few calculated risks can help build his or her confidence,  instill resilience, and help him or her find success and happiness in everyday tasks. Be flexible, adjust, and make sure that everyone who interacts with your loved one understands how important safety is to you and your family.

With a little planning, there's a lot you can do to protect your loved one at home, at school, and on the go.