Look around your home, and here’s what you’ll see: more safety hazards for small children than you can say “No, don’t!” to. The trick is knowing what to look for.
In the interest of helping you protect your children from harm, are several ways to childproof your home in two of the most frequently occupied room: your kitchen and living (or family) room.
Living areas
- Cover all unused sockets with plastic protectors
- Always be on the lookout for small objects kids can put in their mouths and potentially swallow – that list includes game pieces, buttons, coins, and so many more
- Check all electrical cords to ensure they’re not frayed or otherwise damaged
- Remove sharp objects away from high traffic areas
- Install a safety gate at the top and bottom of stairs until your child has mastered the art of climbing without falling
- Try to avoid purchasing poisonous plants, but you do have any, keep them well out of reach of small, curious hands and mouths
- Fasten high bookcases and other tall pieces of furniture to the wall so they can’t be pulled down
- Keep furniture away from windows
- Check your doorstops for removable caps that pose a choking hazard
Kitchen
- Keep cleaning supplies in a high cabinet rather than under the sink
- Use childproof locks on all lower cabinets
- Don’t leave mouse or insect traps in places where your baby can find them.
- Keep your oven door locked, even when it’s in use
- Use back burners for cooking whenever possible and turn the handles of pots and pans toward the back of the stove
- Remove magnets from the fridge because, if they fall down, they become choking hazards
At Now Security Systems we offer optional video cameras and monitors so you can keep a watchful eye on your children when you’re not in the same room. It’s just one of several ways we can help make your life less stressful and worry-free. Contact us today for more information or a free in-home security evaluation.