Childproofing a home is not an easy task. Their curious minds are always looking for interesting elements that hold promise of setting you off on a panic mode. From climbing on to kitchen counters to reaching out to cookie jars and experimenting with electronic gadgets — a potent combination of an active mind and boderline boredom is the recipe for accidents.
The best way to begin to childproof your house is to get down on your hands and knees and see what your child sees. This ground level appraisal is the one which will need to be repeated at regular intervals. What once was out of reach for a 15-month-old swiftly becomes accessible to a three-year-old.
FALLING FURNITURE
Unbalanced furniture can fall on your children. Heavy dressers, entertainment centres, bookcases or anything kids might be tempted to climb onto or pull on should be anchored to the wall. TV tables are a common tipping hazard and should be secured.
POTS, PANS, AND BURNS
Banging on pots and pans is an old routine for children. Once there’s a pot in their hands, they consider it a toy. When the parent takes it away to cook, the child might reach for it, which will cause severe burns. Stove knob covers and oven door locks are good preventive measures.
CHOKING HAZARDS
Doorstops with removable caps are a big concern. If a curious child puts one in his or her mouth, the cap can become loosened by the child’s saliva and swallowed. Use one-piece doorstops that mount onto a wall or door.
WINDOW SAFETY
Install window guards and window wedges to prohibit children from opening windows too wide and thus prevent any accidents at open windows. Install permanent tie-downs. Looped pull cords can also be cut into two strands, the ends of which can be finished with tassels.
BATHROOM SAFETY
Toilet locks, which require two motions — moving the arm and then raising the seat — are a good idea for safety and hygiene. Door locks, which prevent children from accessing the room as well as locks on each cabinet are essential.