Childproof Your Home

By Stacie Ball

Safety Latches and Locks

Affix safety latches or locks to all cabinets and drawers within a child’s reach. Install locks on the toilet, oven and other appliances.

Anti-Scalding Devices

These attachments can be installed on faucets and showerheads to prevent scalding and burning from hot water. Even without an anti-scalding device, the water heater thermostat can be set to 120 degrees to prevent burns.

Outlet Protectors and GFCIs

Cover all unused outlets with protectors. Update the outlets near a sink or water source with GFCIs (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter). These can turn off electricity if appliances fall into water.

Keeping children safe is a top priority and source of worry for many new parents. According to the CDC, over 12,000 children die from an accidental injury each year, and close to 9 million children visit the emergency room for a non-fatal injury. Up to one-third of these unfortunate mishaps occur at home. It is impossible to prevent every accident, but many of these accidents can be avoided by using the devices and tips below.

Safety Gates and Guards

Position gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs and in the doorway of any room with potential danger to a child. There are also gates and guards for windows, because a screen will not keep a child from falling out of a window. Just be sure it can be removed easily in case of a fire.

Corner and Edge Bumpers

These can be placed on tables, chairs, fireplace corners, etc. to prevent cuts, scrapes, or gashes. Attach large furniture like dressers and bookcases to the wall, so they cannot fall over onto a child.

Doorknob Covers

Put these gadgets on doorknobs to prevent children from opening the door. Ensure that older children and adults can operate them in case of a fire or other emergency.

Stove Guard

Whether it’s a mat that covers the stove or an attachment, these guards prevent a child from touching a hot stove. Covers for stove knobs can also be purchased to prevent the stove from accidentally being turned on.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke detectors should be in working order and near bedrooms on each level of the home. Carbon monoxide detectors should be located near sleeping areas and should especially be used in homes with attached garages and gas or oil heat.

Change Habits

It is important to create a habit of putting potentially dangerous things away. Unplug and safely store curling irons and hair dryers after using them. Check floors regularly for small items, such as Legos, magnets or anything small enough for a child to choke on. As always, store knives in their holsters and place guns and knives in a locked safe or other secure place.

Using the tools above and keeping an eye out for potential hazards can hopefully decrease the risk of injury and help parents sleep at night. Use the list to childproof your home and make 2022 your safest year yet. n