Most of a child’s early years are spent in the house. As children learn and grow, they climb, taste and touch anything they can get their hands on to satisfy their curiosity. It is therefore crucial, that parents are alert and take due diligence in making the homes safe. Child proofing your home is a step in the right direction, coupled with constant supervision. As you make it safe, keep in mind that it is also a playground, so make it creative too.
You will need to look at your home from a child’s perspective as you look out for possible hazards.
To child-proof your home, here are a few things you will need to take into consideration:
Safety gates.
Install safety gates that your child cannot open, at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent falls. Ensure that the gates installed have no gaps big enough to let a child through. You could also use them to contain your little one in certain areas.
Plug-in Caps.
These caps come in handy and help protect your young one from electric shock or electrocution. Put them in your empty electrical sockets not in use. Ensure that they are large enough and hard for children to unplug, so as not to choke on them.
Edge bumpers.
Move heavy or unstable furniture against walls to prevent them from tipping over. Place heavy objects such as televisions on low tables and against the wall to make it difficult for children to reach. Close drawers and closets at all times as children use them as ladders to get to reach high places. Use edge bumpers on furniture, drawers or on objects with sharp edges to prevent injury from falls against sharp edges. In the event of a fall, these will soften or reduce the impact on your child.
Safety Latches and Locks.
Ensure that poisonous and harmful substances are correctly labeled and stored away from the reach of children. In the event that they consumed, you can easily identify them and know what form of first aid to give as you await medical attention. Items in your medicine cabinet, bathroom, kitchen or pantry drawers should be kept away from children. Use safety locks or latches on such storage areas.
While in the kitchen, place knives and other such objects on the back of the bench, and store away kitchen appliances not in use. Remember to turn pot handles towards the back of your cook top and keep hot food far from the reach of your little one.
Door Stops and Holders.
Prevent your little ones fingers and hands from being pinched or crushed by doors. Using door stops or holders will prevent doors from swinging or banging. Make sure they are child friendly and difficult for a child to dislodge.
Remove breakable objects from low tables or shelves and keep small toys or objects your child may choke from away. This will keep your home safe and your family happy and healthy.