Oyovwi F. Evuarherhe and Ighoja F. Ejiroghene

Dept. of Physical and Health Education, College of Education, Warri.

Abstract

This paper examined the trends and dynamics of safety education and accident prevention in Nigerian secondary schools, addressing the pressing need for effective safety measures in educational environments. It begins with an examination of the concepts of safety education and accident prevention, highlighting their relevance and significance in contemporary schooling. The paper revealed the current status of safety education, exposing gaps in implementation and the necessity for a more integrated curriculum. Common forms of accidents in schools, including falls, sports injuries, laboratory incidents, and fire hazards, are identified along with their root causes, such as inadequate supervision, lack of resources, and poor infrastructure. Notable trends include the integration of safety education into various subjects, the use of technology for safety monitoring and training, and an increased focus on emergency preparedness through regular safety drills. To tackle the identified challenges, stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, school boards, parents, and community leaders, are encouraged to advocate for robust safety policies, invest in teacher training, and leverage modern technologies. Additionally, fostering community engagement is essential for creating a supportive network that reinforces safety practices. Through proper implementation of these recommendations, Nigerian secondary schools can create safer learning environments, ultimately enhancing student well-being and educational outcomes. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on health education in the 21st century, advocating for a holistic approach to safety that is both proactive and responsive to the needs of students and educators.