Simple Steps to Make Your Home Child-Safe

Did you know that indoor accidents are a leading cause of emergency visits for children under three?

Many parents, especially first-time caregivers, often overlook potential hazards that little ones might encounter, learning the hard way.

Understanding that parents may underestimate toddlers' abilities or lack awareness about safety measures, this guide highlights common risks in every room and practical steps to create a safer environment for your child.

Living Area

• Move furniture with sharp edges like coffee tables and TV stands away from children's reach. At two feet tall, toddlers are at eye level with these hazards.

• Install safety gates on stairs to prevent accidental falls when you're not supervising.

• Keep fragile items, such as vases or glass decor, out of children's reach to avoid breakage and injuries.

• Cover fireplaces and store matches and candles safely inside drawers.

Bedroom

• Place power strips behind furniture or inside cabinets so children cannot access them, reducing the risk of electric shock.
• Ensure windows are fitted with guards to prevent falls.
• Keep tiny toys like balloons or crayons away from reach to prevent choking hazards.
• Check that dressers are secure and free from sharp edges; tip-over accidents are common among toddlers.
• Inspect cribs to ensure they are installed correctly, avoiding traditional drop-side models that can trap children.

Kitchen

• The kitchen contains many dangerous items; always monitor its safety.

• Keep ovens at accessible heights with secure doors.

• Use refrigerator latches to prevent children from opening them independently.

• Store small appliances and utensils out of children's reach to prevent injuries.

• Always lock the dishwasher to avoid children ingesting detergents.

Bathroom

• Install a bathroom door that doesn’t fully close to prevent pinched fingers or toes.

• Always mop up water after use and avoid puddles to prevent slips.

• Keep toilet lids closed to stop children from sticking their heads in.

• Check water temperature before bathing your child to prevent burns.

• Keep hair dryers and other electronics unplugged and out of reach when not in use.