As any parent knows, keeping a toddler safe at home is a never-ending battle. Those little hands and exploring minds can turn the most innocent household items into potential hazards.
At Play It Safe Baby Proofing, we've seen it all when it comes to keeping kids out of harm's way. That's why we've put together this guide to the top 10 household hazards for toddlers - and how you can childproof against them.
1. Stairs / Landings
One of the biggest threats in any home, stairs pose a serious risk of falls and injury for young children. To childproof stairs, install sturdy baby gates at the top and bottom, and consider carpeting or non-slip treads to prevent slips. If your landing has horizontal balusters, wrought iron designs or vertical balusters spaced further than 4" apart, consider using acrylic/plexiglass or vinyl mesh to cover those spaces to prevent slip-through or climbing.
2. Drawers and Cabinets
Little fingers love to pull open drawers and cabinets, potentially getting trapped or accessing dangerous contents like sharp objects, breakables, and toxic cleaning supplies. Drawer stacks can also be used as ladders to get to the countertop surface! Install childproof locks or latches to keep drawers and doors closed and curious hands out.
3. Electrical Outlets
Exposed electrical outlets are irresistible for tiny fingers. Install tamper-resistant outlet covers and use power strip enclosures to prevent your little one from getting into the plugs.
4. Windows
Falls from windows can be devastating. Install window guards or stops, and keep furniture away from windows to prevent climbing.
5. Cords and Strings
Loose cords from blinds, curtains or appliances pose a strangulation risk. Tuck or secure cords out of reach, and consider cordless window treatments.
6. Furniture Tip-Overs
Top-heavy furniture like dressers, bookcases and TV stands can easily tip over and crush a child. Anchor all tall, heavy furniture to the wall for stability.
7. Choking Hazards
Small objects, loose parts and certain foods pose a choking danger for toddlers. Keep small items out of reach, supervise closely during mealtimes, and learn CPR.
8. Hot Surfaces
Curious toddlers can suffer serious burns from touching hot stoves, ovens, coffee makers and other heated appliances. Use stove knob covers, keep hot items out of reach, and teach kids to avoid hot surfaces.
9. Toxic Household Products
Cleaning supplies, medications, cosmetics and other chemicals should always be stored securely in locked cabinets, out of a toddler's reach.
10. Drowning Risks
Bathtubs, toilets, buckets and other water sources pose a drowning hazard. Stay with your child at all times when near water, and install safety covers or locks as needed.
Comprehensive Childproofing for Total Peace of Mind
Securing your home against these common hazards is essential for keeping your toddler safe. But the truth is, there are dozens of potential dangers lurking in every household.
That's where the experts at Play It Safe Baby Proofing come in. We serve the Southern California area and offer comprehensive in-home safety assessments to identify all the risks in your living space, and install the right childproofing solutions to give you total peace of mind.
Our experienced technicians are trained to identify hazards you might have overlooked, from hidden electrical wiring to unstable furniture. We'll work with you to develop a personalized childproofing plan that covers every room, every nook and cranny.
Don't wait for an accident to happen. Contact Play It Safe Baby Proofing today to schedule your in-home consultation and protection your little one from harm.
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