The Nassau County Department of Health offers some reminders to parents that may help prevent injuries to their children at home and on the road during this gift-giving holiday season:

Toys for Children: When buying toys, always read the label that gives age appropriate recommendations; use that information as a guide. In 2000, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 191,700 children were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms after toy-related incidents.

Scooter Safety: The Health Department advises individuals of all ages to wear proper safety gear while riding scooters, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads. In year 2000 in the U.S., there were more than 20,000 emergency room-treated injuries reported about 85% of which are to children under 15 years of age.

Helmets: New York State law requires children under 14 years old to wear a helmet when riding bicycles and in-line skating. Wearing a helmet can prevent 85% of head injuries. The Department also recommends children should wear protective gear such as kneepads, elbow pads and wrist guards when skating - professional athletes always do.

Child Safety Seats: Infants under one year of age AND 20 pounds should ride in a rear-facing child safety seat in the back. Children over one year of age and between 20-40 pounds may face forward in the back seat, with the harness straps in the top slots. Older children, ages 4 - 8 and up to 80 lbs., should use booster seats, which work in conjunction with the vehicle's safety belts.

As of November 28, 2000, children up to 16 years of age must use the safety belts in the back seat in New York State. Riding in the back protects them from the force of deploying passenger side air bags.

For more information about preventing injuries, call the Nassau County Department of Health weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at 571-3737.