Keeping Children Safe

All children deserve to live without the fear of abuse and neglect. If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, make that call.

Feeling overwhelmed? - Get Help

Parenting is tough, but it should not be tough on children.

• Throughout the City, resources are available to provide support services to overwhelmed parents. Call 311 and ask for “parenting support.” Parents can also contact the ACS Community Partnerships.
• For help finding preventive services, call the ACS Parent Help Line (OPTA) at (212) 676-7667.
• Be cautious when leaving children with caregivers. Learn more for tips on choosing a safe caregiver for your child.
• Is your teen acting out? Contact the ACS Family Assessment Project (FAP) in your borough for help.

Child Safety and Well-Being

It takes all of us working together to give children healthy, happy, and safe childhoods. These resources provide information to help keep children safe.

Burn/Fire Prevention Tips and Resources:

ACS and our partners invite you to join us in spreading awareness about the importance of fire safety. During the winter months especially, many families use portable electric space heaters to help keep warm. The fatal fire that took place on January 9, 2022 in the Bronx - sparked by a defective electric heater and claiming the lives of 17 people, including 8 children - is a tragic reminder to all New Yorkers to practice fire safety.

Please use and share the following fire and burn prevention safety tips and resources:

• FDNY Smart: The FDNY Fire Safety Education Unit provides videos, podcasts and literature on all aspects of fire safety. The literature and website are available in over 20 different languages. They also provide in person and virtual presentations. Learn more at www.FDNYSmart.org
• Safe Kids Worldwide: This nonprofit organization works to help families and communities keep children safe from injuries, and offers the following fire safety guidance and tips for parents:
  • Fire safety checklist
  • Fire safety tips
  • Electric portable space heaters
  • Home fire escape plans

Preventing Hazards:

• Preventing Accidental Injuries: Learn how to avoid some of the most common and dangerous child and infant-related injuries.
  • Watch a video on how to keep your baby safe from accidental injuries.
  • Download a booklet on how to keep your baby safe from accidental injuries.
  • Read more for additional resources from the NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS).

• Cannabis Edibles: Many cannabis edibles look like candy or food to children, but they are dangerous. Learn more about how to store them safely.
• Look Before You Lock: Children should never be left unattended or be able to get inside a vehicle on their own, any time of the year but especially in warmer months.
• Medication Safety: Learn about how to keep your children safe from medicine & other dangerous household products.
• Safe Sleep for Babies: Tips on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby.
• Summer Safety: Information on how to have a fun but safe summer.
• Window Guard Safety: Information on installing lifesaving window guards.

Supporting Families During the COVID-19 Crisis

Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on New York City, ACS and the City of New York have developed a list of resources for those seeking assistance. The following websites aim to connect New Yorkers and their loved ones to day-to-day resources they may need, including: greater access to food and internet; housing and rental assistance; and medical, mental health and drug treatment services.

• Coping Through COVID: Read more for a comprehensive list of resources on how to cope through the COVID-19 crisis.
• Teens Take on COVID: Read more for an adolescent and teen-specific list of resources on how to cope through COVID.

New York State’s Abandoned Infant Protection Act

New York State’s Abandoned Infant Protection Act allows a parent to abandon a newborn baby up to 30 days of age anonymously and without fear of prosecution -- if the baby is abandoned in a safe manner. A parent is not guilty of a crime if the infant is left with an appropriate person or in a suitable location and the parent promptly notifies an appropriate person of the infant’s location. A hospital, staffed police or fire station are examples of safe and suitable choices.

For more information regarding the Abandoned Infant Protection Act, call toll free: 1-866-505-SAFE (7233).

Get Involved

We encourage you to get involved in the lives of children in your communities by tutoring, mentoring, coaching, or volunteering.
For opportunities to volunteer, visit NYC Service.

Adult Protective Services

To report abuse and neglect of an adult 18 years old and older, call the New York State Adult Protective Services at 1-844-697-3505. Learn more about NYC services for adults who are physically and/or mentally impaired and need help to live safely in their homes.