Queenslanders Urged to Stay Safe as Temperatures Rise
As Queenslanders embrace the summer holidays, the Crisafulli Government is reminding families to stay alert to hidden dangers from backyard barbecues to swimming pools and children’s toys through its new Be Summer Safe campaign.
Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the campaign aims to reduce preventable injuries and tragedies over the holiday period.
“Summer is a time for families to relax, cool down and have fun, and we want to see everyone enjoy it safely,” Ms Frecklington said. “Whether kids are jumping into a portable pool in the backyard or playing with toys, it’s important for parents to supervise them to avoid serious injuries or tragedies.”
The Queensland Office of Fair Trading has joined regulators across the nation to promote product safety and awareness, especially for items that become popular during the hotter months.
Some of the biggest summertime risks include:
Portable Pools: Always supervise children, learn CPR, ensure compliance with safety standards, and pack pools away when not in use.
Pool Toys and Swimming Aids: Follow age and weight restrictions and provide constant supervision.
Button Batteries: Check that compartments are secure and child-resistant.
Trampolines: Inspect padding and frames, limit jumping to one child at a time, and ensure products meet Australian Standards.
Barbecue Brushes: Replace brushes with broken or loose bristles, as metal fragments can lodge in food and cause serious harm.
National data from 2024–25 highlights ongoing concerns, with 15 drowning deaths of children under five recorded across Australia half in home swimming pools. Each month, one Australian child is seriously injured after swallowing or inserting a button battery.
Ms Frecklington also reminded adults to take their own safety seriously over summer.
“Some of these warnings aren’t just for children. Adults need to take care around the water and when firing up the barbie, so we can all enjoy summer without needing a trip to the hospital.”
Queenslanders are encouraged to learn more about safe summer practices by visiting the Staying Safe in Summer webpage. Any concerns about unsafe or non-compliant products can be reported to the Office of Fair Trading at www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
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