A recent report that documented high rates of child fatalities among African-American families has combined with concerns about recent civil unrest to expand a safety-awareness event planned for today in Avondale.

        The youth event, to be held at 10 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club at 3504 Washington Ave., was originally planned in response to a Hamilton County child-fatality report released April 12.

        That report found nearly 55 percent of the 144 childhood deaths that occurred in the county last year involved black children, even though blacks comprise 23 percent of the population.

        The percentage of black child fatalities was the highest in five years. In addition, all 10 homi cides listed in the report involved black children — a first in five years.

        Beyond last year's statistics, however, recent headlines have added urgency to the event. Earlier this week, a 22-month-old boy in North Fairmount died from a fire allegedly caused by children playing with a lighter.

        “At some point, somebody has to say that's enough,” said Willie J. Jones, a Cincinnati firefighter and director of a group called Volunteers for Youth Safety.

        The event originally envisioned inviting a variety of experts to teach first aid and home safety tips.

        But since the riots erupted in Over-the-Rhine, the event has grown to include a symbolic balloon release, a moment of prayer and sessions on dispute resolution for youth, Mr. Jones said.

        “We're trying to come up with some remedies and solutions,” he said.

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