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In Woolwich during 1963, as mentioned earlier, 17 persons
died as a result of an accident at home. Five of these deaths
occurred from falls, and four from poisoning. A further seven
died from burns and one from drowning. Figures for non-fatal
accidents are not readily available since many people either treat
themselves or are treated by their own General Practitioner, and
still others report to hospital either by their own transport or
public transport. It is known, however, that injuries sufficiently
serious to require the use of an ambulance were sustained in 474
cases during the year.
i) Film Shows and Talks
On 50 occasions, Safety in the Home was made the subject
of programmes given by the Health Education Unit. The talks were
well received and often surprise was expressed at the gravity of the
problem. On 23 other visits by the Unit a short Home Safety film
was included in programmes covering another aspect of Public Health.
ii) Leaflets and Literature
Much use is made of the existing facilities for distribution
of leaflets to local doctors' and dentists' waiting rooms, factory and
workshop canteens and rest rooms. Much literature is also distributed
during visits made by the Health Education Unit. A new departure was
made in the inclusion of leaflets dealing with the safe use of solid
fuel, electricity and gas, in letters to residents of new and current
smoke control areas.
Posters are displayed on the Department's transport, at
Council offices and libraries, and at nine sites at each of the
railway stations.
iii) Visiting
Advice on Home Safety is given by the Old People's Welfare
Visitors and Public Health Inspectors on their routine visits. A
new scheme was inaugurated with the consent of the Woolwich Group
Hospital Management Committee for the issue to home accident patients
attending hospital, of a reply-paid card offering the assistance of the
Committee in preventing any future accidents. This scheme, first
started in this Borough, has received much interest by other authorities,
a number of whom have started up their own schemes.
iv) Home Safety Training
(a) Local Department Stores - An offer was made to the larger
department stores for the inclusion of Home Safety in their staff
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