Injury Free Coalition for Kids of Gainesville

About Us!

UF Health Shands Hospital is a Level I State designated, and American College of Surgeons Level I verified Pediatric and Adult Trauma Center. In addition, UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital represents the only quaternary care pediatric center in North Central Florida. UF Health is a part of the Children’s Miracle Network’s alliance of premier hospitals for children and is a recognized Magnet and Baby-Friendly hospital.

With our dedicated pediatric physicians, motivated nurses, support services, and community-based ground and flight EMS programs, UF Health Shands provides the highest quality care to our local community. Using evidence-based practice and family-centered care, we collaborate and facilitate injury prevention education through many different safety partnerships.

Injury prevention programs at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital include the following:

• We Have a Little Emergency (WHALE): A child passenger safety program that provides car seat and booster seat education and information to parents and caregivers. It also contains stickers that can be peeled off and placed directly on the car seat and/or booster seat. Parents and guardians are encouraged to complete the emergency contact sticker which is placed on the back of the child's car seat to provide information to first responders in the event of an emergency.
• Safe Walkers and Transportation (SWAT): Based on Florida state curriculum for pedestrian safety, we have developed an interactive pedestrian and bike safety program that allows children to both learn and test pedestrian/bike skills in a fun, safe, and controlled environment.
• Water Safety: Teaching children water safety is a key part of reducing child drownings. In Florida, drownings are one of the leading causes of child-related deaths. We offer various resources, flyers, children's books, etc. providing education and information to children and families.
• ATV Safety: Educational flyers and coloring book handouts promoting safety tips and Florida laws for ATV riding.
• STOP THE BLEED: A national awareness campaign that trains the public to help recognize and stop a life-threatening bleed in an emergency before first responders arrive.

Contact Info

Jordyn Zyngier, BS, EMT-B
Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention & Outreach Coordinator
UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital Trauma Services
ACS Verified Level I Pediatric Trauma Center
Gainesville, FL 32608
Office: (352) 574-7416