Most homes are adapted for adults and so it’s unfortunately quite common for children to have accidents necessitating a trip to the emergency room. The good news is that you can easily and cheaply prevent accidents from happening in the first place by adapting your home specifically for children. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Potential hazards at home
Often we don’t think of all the potential dangers that exist in our homes. Risks exist in everything from chemicals in detergents, to sharp edges on knives and blender components, to steep stairs and electrical outlets. The sad truth is that its usually only after an accident has occurred that it becomes apparent these items pose a safety hazard.
Curious and fervent children
Children are curious and obstinate. Running around and discovering their surroundings by looking at, feeling and putting things in their mouth is all a natural part of playing and learning. They also mimic adults and repeat what we do. The question is how we can ensure that children have this space to discover and learn without exposing themselves to danger.
Many young children go to the emergency room each year because of injuries they sustained in their own house. Of course, protecting your child from everything is impossible, but much can be prevented and avoided with the help of some simple tricks. Child-proofing before the child arrives is both easier and safer, and we will be happy to assist you.
Checklist
Everyday Baby has compiled the following checklist to make it easy for children to be safe and secure inside your home:
– Protect your power outlets
Modern power outlets have built-in protection, and if you have older power outlets, you can replace them.
– Remove loose cords from electrical outlets
Cords are fun to play with but pose a great danger of electrocution if the insulation is damaged.
– Child-proof the kitchen
Make sure that knives, scissors and other sharp objects are stored in a childproof box, out of reach of young children. Also make sure that the stove and the oven have a child lock.
– Keep chemicals out of reach
Hazardous chemicals found in, among other things, detergents and medicines, should be stored out of reach of children, and preferably housed in child-resistant packaging. Medicines should be stored in a locked medicine cabinet.
– Avoid drowning risk
Make sure not to leave water in the bathtub or in small outdoor pools. Make sure that larger outdoor pools are fenced-off or covered.
– Secure balcony and window
Be sure to keep the balcony door locked and make sure that all components of the balcony railing are tight. Also make sure that windows are not too easy to open and that they have a latch that prevents them from opening too much.
– Attach large furniture to the wall
Children enjoy climbing, and furniture that can fall over on them is therefore a big risk.
– Set-up gates on the stairs
Put gates at the beginning and end of any stairs.
Review the whole home
Review your entire home and ask the following questions:
- What can pinch or cut your child?
- What can give the child an electric shock?
- Where does the child risk stabbing or drowning?
- Where can the child fall from?
- What can the child get burned by?
- Where can the child get chemicals?
Of course, the risks are different for an infant, a child who has learned to crawl and walk, versus children who are a bit older and to whom you can explain the dangers lurking in the area. Therefore, you should review your home regularly.
With the help of these tips, you can have a calmer everyday life and not have to be on your guard all the time. In addition, your children can play and discover their world in a safe environment without exposing themselves to risks.
Don’t wait until an accident happens, childproof your home today!