Becoming a parent brings joy and excitement, but it also brings new responsibilities to keep your little one safe. As your baby starts to crawl and explore, taking precautions to babyproof your home is essential. It’s surprising how many things in the home can threaten your baby’s safety. To help, we have compiled five tips to turn your home into a safe haven for your baby.
Babyproof Your Home: Lock Away Harmful Chemicals and Medicines
It’s critical to keep hazardous chemicals and medicines away from your child. Lock them up in a cabinet or drawer your child can’t reach. Child-proof locks can be installed on cabinets or drawers with harmful items to prevent curious toddlers from opening them.
Child-Proof Sharp Edges and Cover Electrical Outlets
Covering sharp edges, such as corners, with soft padding can prevent injuries and bumps while your child crawls around the house. In addition, electrical outlets are a potential source of danger for your little one. Install child-proof outlet covers on any outlets within easy reach to prevent electrocutions.
Block Off Danger Zones
It’s essential to block off danger zones such as stairs and balconies. Install baby gates to block areas that could be hazardous for your baby. Invest in quality baby gates that are sturdy and screw into the wall. Follow all manufacturer recommendations to install gates properly.
Secure Furniture and Appliances
Heavy furniture, such as bookshelves and dressers, can topple over and injure your child if they attempt to climb on them. To prevent this, furniture should be anchored to the wall. Appliances such as televisions should be placed at a secure height or mounted on the wall, and any electrical cables should be secured with conduits or ties to prevent injury.
Be Mindful of Small Objects When You Babyproof Your Home
Babies put anything and everything in their mouths, so keeping small objects out of reach is vital. Small things such as coins, buttons, batteries, and other choking hazards should be kept off the floor. Keep potential choking hazards secured in jars or other containers with lids that would be difficult for a baby to open even if they get to the container.
Proper babyproofing is essential to keep your little one safe. Taking the necessary steps to secure your home will give you peace of mind and reduce the chances of accidents. These five essential tips are a great starting point for creating a baby-safe home. Always keep an eye on your child and stay up-to-date on the latest babyproofing tips and trends to keep your baby safe at all times.
Border Home and Property Inspections offers extensive home inspection services in the Midwest region of Alberta and Saskatchewan. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact us to request an appointment.