Childproofing the house is one of the most important tools to safeguard young
infants and children as prevention can eliminate many injuries causing death.
Childproofing the house is one of the most important tools to safeguard young infants and children. Accidental injuries is one the most common killers in children, thus taking the necessary precautions and proper safety measures can eliminate many of these potential injuries and keep the family safe at home. The following guides can turn a house kid-friendly.
Childproofing the House: The Bedroom
As the room where the child sleeps, it is necessary to take safety measures in the bedroom as a parent, nanny or babysitter may not always be present. The following tips may be used to childproof the bedroom:
- Check the crib that it meets the safety standards. If possible, keep it away from windows.
- Install window guards.
- Ensure that the crib or other high furniture are near the window.
- Make sure that the window-blind cords are out of reach of children to avoid strangulation.
Childproofing the House: The Bathroom
There are many different items that may be a cause for potential danger in the bathroom. The following tips are generally recommended to childproof the bathroom:
- Install safety latches and locks to ensure that children cannot enter the bathroom without supervision by an adult. In addition, place latches and locks on all cabinets and drawers that may contain medicine or other hazardous items.
- Install an anti-scald device for showerheads and faucets to prevent burns.
- Install toilet locks to keep the toilet lids closed.
- Unplug any electrical device, such as hair dryers and electric rollers, to prevent electrocution from occurring.
Childproofing the House: The Kitchen
The kitchen is a dangerous place for children to explore as it contains many sources of danger. The following tips are suggested to childproof the kitchen.
- Put locks on stove knobs to keep children from igniting stove burners.
- Attach a safety cover on the garbage disposal.
- Install safety latches and locks on any cabinets or drawers that may contain household cleaners, or knives and other sharp utensils, respectively.
- Ensure that kitchenware and appliances are out of reach of children.
- Place visual reminders on potential hazardous items.
Childproofing the House: Around the House
The remainder of the house should also follow the childproofing precautions. The tips of childproofing the house can include:
- Place outlet protectors or safety caps on unused electrical outlets all over the house.
- Ensure that window-blind cords not looped. If they are, cut these to avoid entanglement.
- Put safety gates in front of any stairs in the house.
- Make use of doorstops and door holders to avoid pinching or crushing in doors and door hinges.
- For corners and other sharp edges, install corner and edge bumpers.
- Place furniture away from high windows. Ensure that furniture do not tip by placing brackets and anchors.
- Switched to cordless phones.
Fortunately, most of these childproofing devices are relatively affordable and can be found at many different stores, including, baby product, hardware, or grocery stores. Childproofing the house can significantly reduce chances of accidents from befalling into children. Enrol in First Aid Courses to learn how to childproof a house.
Online Sources:
http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/organizing/tips-techniques/childproofing-checklist-00000000000239/
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/childproof-home