For family homeowners moving into a new property this spring, child-proofing this property is a must.
Moving to a new house is stressful at the best, and especially so for first-time parents.
But the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles’ Safety and Injury Prevention Program notes most fall-related injuries happen to children of four-years-old and under, with these injuries largely taking place at home.
So the time taken to child-proof a home is well worth it as serious injuries can occur in seconds even with the most watchful parents.
Get down to baby level
Diaper company Pampers advises all parents to begin child-proofing their home earlier, rather than later, and before their baby starts to crawl.
A good way to start child-proofing is by getting down on the floor to see the home from a baby’s eyes – including what may be a hazard when viewed as an adult.
“Hot zones”: bathrooms and kitchens
The Los Angeles’ Safety and Injury Prevention Program recommends that bathrooms and kitchens should be off-limits to young ones 24/7 and at the very least, only allow children in these rooms if there is adult supervision.
Either way, ensure both areas have safety locks on oven doors and door knobs, cabinets, refrigerators, and toilets.
Cleaning and medicinal products plus sharp objects should be kept in locked, inaccessible areas.
Hot foods and liquids should also be out of reach, away from counter and table edges, and use safety treads or a non-skid mat in the bathroom.
And, of course, never leave small children in the bath without supervision as drownings can occur even in a few inches of water.
Staircases. Child-proof gates are essential at both the top and bottom of sairs.
Furniture. Ensure all tall or heavy furniture, plus television units, bookshelves, and lamps, can’t easily be pulled over.
Secure these items to the wall by safety straps or similar and keep them away from windows.
Don’t forget to lock washers and dryers, especially front-loaders to stop small people crawling inside.
Sharp corners. The danger of corners on tables or other furniture can be reduced with corner guards.
Floors. Aim for carpeted floors, rather than tiles, or put down rugs – ideally ones that are easily cleaned.
Electrical sockets. Cover sockets with plastic plug covers and ensure electrical cords are out of reach.
Windows. Use cordless blinds and curtains on all windows and ensure windows have child-safety locks.