TEATIME is a dangerous part of the day for children in Worcestershire, according to new research.

Figures released by the Child Accident Prevention Trust show that serious accidents involving youngsters peak during the hours of 3pm and 7pm.

More than half of major road incidents take place during this time window in the West Midlands while children are more than twice as likely to be seriously burnt in the after-school period than in the morning.

The findings have been published to mark the launch of Child Safety Week, a national awareness campaign educating families on how to prevent accidents.

Katrina Phillips, chief executive of Child Accident Prevention Trust, said: “Children in the West Midlands suffer more serious burns and road accidents during the after-school rush than at any other time of day.

"Parents are up against it to get tea on the table, clothes ironed and tired children into the bath. It’s hardly surprising safety precautions get missed.

“But these can be devastating injuries. A hot drink can scar a baby for life. A child can suffer brain damage if hit by a car.

"Simple changes to teatime routines can protect children from serious harm – whether that’s putting your mug of tea out of reach or practising road safety on the walk home from school."

For more information visit capt.org.uk