Baby Proofing Your Home Tips – Make sure you are fully prepared for upcoming visits by child proofing your home with these tips from Crittenton Hospital in Rochester via the Rochester Board of Realtors.
Baby Proofing Your Home Tips
BABY PROOFING YOUR HOME TIPS – CABINETS
All cabinets should be locked with latches either inside or out. Lock away such dangerous substances as detergents, solvents, polishes and other cleaning supplies to prevent poisonings. Keep all medicines and cosmetics out of reach and in the original containers with childproof caps.
BABY PROOFING YOUR HOME TIPS – ELECTRIC FIXTURES
Dangling electric cords are fascinating playthings for children. Buy cord shorteners at a hardware store. These are strips of plastic around which the excess cord is wrapped. Cords that are thin or frayed should be replaced immediately. Buy small flat covers for outlets not in use to prevent children from inserting their fingers or other objects.
BABY PROOFING YOUR HOME TIPS – KITCHEN
Again, lock up all household cleaners and place knives high on the wall in an enclosed knife rack. Remember that children can turn on faucets and scald themselves. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents adjust their water heater so water temperature cannot exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
BABY PROOFING YOUR HOME TIPS – STAIRS
Gates can only be temporary barriers to keep children from using stairs. Some toddlers learn to climb over them. Use sturdier gates.
BABY PROOFING YOUR HOME TIPS – POOLS AND PONDS
Outdoor swimming pools and ponds are very inviting to children – and dangerous as well.
Some localities require that a protective barrier such as a fence be put around pools to keep out small children. Make sure at all times that there is adequate supervision when children are playing in an area near a body of water.
In addition, close bathroom doors to keep children from entering and perhaps climbing and slipping into the bathtub. Tack down rugs to prevent falls and pick up all small objects that may be swallowed. While plants are beautiful to look at, some are poisonous and could be fatal if eaten by a child. Keep them safely out of reach. Lastly, never let children play in the garage, attic or basement. There are too many hazards, such as tools and paints, which could lead to serious injury.
Children are inquisitive by nature and are eager to learn what things feel, smell and taste like. By following the above tips, you can peacefully enjoy your home by safely allowing the children in your home to investigate the fun world around them.
Source: Rochester Board of Realtors
For information and classes please call Crittenton Hospital Medical Center’s Community Health & Education Department at 248-652-5259 or visit www.crittenton.com.
For more tips on baby proofing your home, visit healthychildren.org.
