Residence: Childproofing

EXPLORE: At Home

Here are some things to consider doing.
Some items may not be applicable to you.

  • Consider hiring a company to help you childproof

  • Get down on your hands and knees to help detect hazards which children can get to

  • Place gates at top and bottom of all stairs

  • Install childproof latches on appropriate cabinets, drawers, etc.

  • Put following out of reach of children:

    • Hazardous materials, breakable objects, rope, string, etc.

  • Place night lights where necessary to prevent falls

  • Place outlet covers on all empty electrical outlets which children can reach (ensure the covers do not pose a choking hazard)

  • Tuck electrical cords out of the way

  • Unplug appliances and cords when not in use

  • Shorten drape and blind cords and/or cut off the knot at the end

  • Install window guards and/or locks

  • Install gates at top and bottom of stairs

  • Lower hot water heater temperature to less than 130¬?F

  • Store medicines in childproof containers

  • Lock appropriate cabinets and drawers

  • Place rubber mats in bathtub and shower

  • Turn pot handles on stove away from front

If your residence was built in 1978 or earlier:

  • Determine if there is a hazard to children from lead paint (use of lead paint was restricted in 1978)

Kitchen:

  • Put following out of reach of children:
    • Plastic bags
    • Dishwashing liquid
    • Cleaning fluids
    • Hot liquids
    • Knives

Thanks for reading!