Home Tips - Child Proofing your home
We all grow accustomed with our lifestyle from being single to getting married that not much will change around your household as grownup knows what is right or wrong (most of the time), what is dangerous and what is not (I hope).
The important lesson that I have learn is that all this will change once you welcome a baby in your home and that baby continuous to grow up. We as parents should start to consider ways to child proof our home for our little angel’s safety. Also people who welcome lots of children should also consider child proofing their home as these little angels will do a lot of unexpected things that may hamper their well being.
One fact is that home accident is the leading cause of death for children and the sad part is that it can be prevented by a little common sense and precautions. Just a little time and effort spent on child proofing can provide a safer home for them to grow up in.
Here are some home tips to consider when child proofing your home:
- Fixtures and decors especially breakable one should be place high above the child’s reach.
- Electrical outlets especially those within the reach of the child should be covered.
- Furniture with sharp edges should have soft guards.
- Window curtains and Tie cords should also be beyond the child reach.
- Appliances and furniture that can be tip over should be wall anchored.
- Chemicals, cleaners and other flammable substances should be place on locked storage.
- Medicines should have child resistant cap and store out of child reach.
- Always keep doors closed especially bathrooms, front and back door and garage.
- Toys should be appropriate on the playing child’s age. Avoid giving those small toys or toys that can be disassembled since child always likes to put things in their mouth.
- Never leave a child alone in the bathroom and keep bathtubs drained and pails emptied.
- For two storey homes or homes that have a basement consider installing stair gates.
- Child should not be allowed to go near any appliances that emit heat like curling irons, heaters and etc.
- Child should not be allowed to go near stoves especially when you are cooking or baking.
- Keep electric fan unplug when not in use consider purchasing fan with finger guard.
- Avoid carrying hot liquid or food near your child.
- Set water heater temperature between 120° - 130° F to prevent any burns from occurring.
- Children should never be left alone with the presence of any animals. If interaction can be avoided especially at an early age so much the better.
- Always keep emergency numbers near your phone.
I hope that these home tips in child proofing your home can serve as a guideline for people who have and will expect a child in their life.