To many, being in your own home is the safest place to be. Although generally true, this can’t always be said for children. There are many dangers around the home that pose a threat to young children. Each year many become injured by hazards in and outside the home.
Here are a few home childproofing tips that may help prevent an accident or injury:
• Safety latches. For bathrooms, kitchens and other areas, safety latches prevent children from having access to household cleaners, medicines, knives and any other sharp objects.
• Safety gates. Prevent a nasty fall down the stairs by installing safety gates. For the top of the stairs, only use gates that screw into the wall. You can also install them to keep children from entering a room or area of the home with potential dangers. Replace older style safety gates that contain ‘V’ shapes large enough to entrap the head or neck of a child.
• Door knob covers. Another method to prevent children from entering a certain room that may be hazardous is by placing doorknob covers and door locks.
• Anti-scald devices. Install these devices on showerheads and faucets and set the water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help prevent burns from hot water. Anti-scalding devices that are used to regulate water temperature may help reduce the chance of sustaining burn injuries.
• Safety netting and window guards. Installing these products may help prevent falls from windows, decks, balconies and landings. These devices should be checked frequently in order to ensure that they are properly installed, secure and maintained.
• Corner and edge bumpers. Furniture and fireplaces tend to have sharp edges. In order to help prevent injuries from falls on sharper edges, install these devices on your furniture.
• Outlet covers and plates. To help prevent electrical shock and electrocution, install these on all the outlets of your home. Young children might stick their fingers in outlets or try to place objects in them, which could be extremely dangerous.
• Pool and spa covers. If you have a pool or spa in your home you should place a barrier completely over it. In addition to the cover, install a 4-foot tall fence with self-closing and self-latching gates to further decrease risk.
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