Some injuries can actually be very nasty, if you get a burn or a scar it can last for a life time

Amanda Pritchett, of CAPT

Risks at home

But they said that in reality one of the greatest risks to every child, particularly those in the younger age brackets, actually lies within their own home.

At the launch of its government-backed Child Safety Week, CAPT said more than two million children need hospital treatment after an accident - a million of these in their own homes.

By ensuring hot liquids are out of reach, stair gates are fitted, medicine slocked away in cupboards and children restrained in properly fitted car seats accidents can be dramatically reduced.

Amanda Pritchett, from CAPT, said parents need to ensure their homes are as safe as possible.

Protecting your child

Keep medicines and household chemicals locked away Never leave babies unattended or on raised surfaces Use properly fitted car restraints Get children to wear cycle helmets and reflective strips when cycling

She said: "Parents have to take control within their own home.

"Some injuries can actually be very nasty, if you get a burn or a scar it can last for a life time."

Older children

Ms Pritchett said that as children grow the dangers to them change and that older children were more at risk from accidents involving cars and bikes.

In 1999, 2,802 children, aged between five to seven were taken to accident and emergency following a car smash; 2,987 were injured after accidents on their bikes.

By comparison only a handful of children in this age group were snatched by strangers.