The
best way to childproof
your home is to get on your hands and knees and look around. This way,
you will see what a child sees. Here are a few questions to ask
yourself: Are electrical outlets covered? Are cords from
electrical items or drapes hanging down so your child can reach them?
Are their any sharp corners from furniture or other items? What small
items could be a choking hazard? (Tip: If the item is the
same size as the large side of a pacifier or smaller it is a choking
hazard. Another trick I have read is using an empty toilet paper roll.
If the object will fit inside it could be a choking hazard.)
Cupboards.
Keeping locks on your cupboards can
prevent children from getting into poisonous household cleaners. Always
keep medicine out of reach, even if they have child safety caps on
them. Child safety caps are not guaranteed to keep your child out.
Always keep the number of you local poison control center handy for
emergencies. If you don't know the number, you can find it at the American Association of Poison Control
Centers. Corners of cupboards should be cushioned to prevent
injury to your child when they run into them. (yes, it happens?)
Outlets and Electrical Items.
Electrocution is also another danger that can be prevented. Covering
electrical outlets with safety caps will prevent baby from sticking his
or her fingers or other objects in them and getting electrocuted. Make
sure small appliances such as blow dryers and curling irons are
unplugged and out of reach as well.
Plastic is
Dangerous.
Keep plastic items such as shopping bags and
garbage bags out of reach. They can easily cause suffocation. Remember
that any vinyl items such as mattress covers can also be a
hazard.
Drapes and Blinds Can Cause
Disaster.
To prevent strangulation always make sure drapes and
blind cords are out of reach. In the nursery, make sure that your
baby's crib is not near any of these items.
Final
Check
While you are checking your home make sure baby does
not have access to bathtubs, toilets, swimming pools. Never leave
buckets with water or cleaning solutions out. Remember, babies can
drown in less than an inch of water. Use safety gates to keep baby from
falling down stairways or just to keep them confined to a particular
room or area. Remember, even the best childproofing does not
warrant leaving any child unattended. Doing this is a great recipe for
serious injuries or worse!!
Originally Posted: Jul 19, 2007 at 7:42 AM Last Updated: Jul 19, 2007 at 7:42 AM
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