Are You Childproofing Your Home Effectively?

Fence around the pool—check; special stickers on all the medicines—check; small stuff out of reach—check, this childproofing thing is easy, right? Not exactly. Childproofing involves several things beyond the general small toy choking dangers. Not only is childproofing essential for safety, it’s also imperative if you want to make it through the first five years with Grandma Edith’s old vase still intact.

Chances are, you thought about childproofing before the baby came home. From making sure you had the right crib that met all safety standards to putting bump-proof corner pads on your coffee table, safety for your baby was imperative. Once a baby is moving around the house, it’s time to take a second look at childproofing efforts. After all, childproofing takes so little time if you know what you’re doing. Your child can have an accident in less time than you think.

Childproofing Staircases: Gate all staircases at the top and close to the bottom to prevent your child from heading up or down to minimize falls.

Childproofing Windows: For any window that is above the ground floor, install safety guards so windows can’t be opened more than six inches. If you have curtain ropes, blinds, or even very dangly curtains, put them up higher than your baby, and be sure they don’t dangle into the playpen or crib.

Childproofing Consumer Products Safety Commission: Stay familiar with objects being recalled for safety hazards.

Childproofing Kitchen Cabinets: Place special door locks on all kitchen cabinets to prevent your child from getting into them.

Childproofing Prescriptions and OTC Medicines: Never let a child play with a medicine bottle, even if it is protected by a safety cap. In addition, be sure to keep all medications behind a locked cabinet door. One of the most dangerous poisons for small children is the iron-enriched chewable vitamin. Iron poisoning can kill your child.