Which information should be included in a safety course for school-age children?

Including the importance of wearing helmets when riding bikes or skateboarding in a safety course for school-age children is crucial for promoting health and preventing injuries. Helmets serve as a protective gear that significantly reduces the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident while cycling or skateboarding. Given that school-age children are often engaged in these activities, teaching them the proper use of helmets can encourage safe practices, instill a sense of personal responsibility for their safety, and promote lifelong safety habits.

When children learn about safety measures such as helmet use, they can better understand the consequences of failing to take precautions during recreational activities. This knowledge helps to prepare them for real-life situations where they must assess risks and make safe choices, particularly in active environments where accidents can occur. By emphasizing helmet use, the program aligns with public health initiatives aimed at reducing injury rates in children.

The other options, while relevant to safety, may address topics less critical or applicable in a school-age safety course. For instance, proper stair safety can be general knowledge but may not specifically resonate with the daily activities of children outside of their homes. Riding in the bed of pickup trucks is inherently dangerous and not a behavior that should be encouraged or normalized. Firearm safety is important but may not