Road, fire and water safety are to become part of the primary school curriculum for the first time because of Government concern that children may not be fully aware of everyday dangers.
Last year road accidents claimed the lives of 26 children - the equivalent of one class. At least 20 others were killed in fire and water-related accidents, the National Safety Council said.
Young children are highly vulnerable road users and are also one of the groups most at risk from fire death, said Mr Robert Molloy, Minister of State for the Environment. He was speaking as a new resource pack, Be Safe, was published for primary schools.
It will form part of the curriculum under the subject heading of Social, Personal and Health Education. "Educating our young people in the formation of good road safety habits from the earliest possible age is vitally important," said Mr Molloy.
The resource material is aimed at children from infants to sixth class. The road safety element concentrates on children learning to cross the road safely, moves on to being safe on public transport and, in fifth and sixth class, cycling safety is emphasised. Children in sixth class are also informed about road signs.
The fire safety section explains how accidents can be prevented in the home with hazards such as chip pans and loose wires highlighted. The dangers of Hallowe'en bonfires and fireworks are pointed out. Sixth-class pupils are told about contacting the emergency services if a fire breaks out in their home.
The water safety section looks at accident prevention at the seaside, in boats and in swimming pools.