A safe home is a happy home: How to childproof your entire house

Childproof homes have one thing in common; they revolve around the safety of the children in the house. Though it is no easy task, living in a child-friendly home will make life easier and happier for you and the entire family.

You can childproof almost every room of your home, from the kitchen and bathroom to bedrooms and living room. Here is how you can transform your home into a childproof safe haven.

General Tips

1. Safety Latches

Make sure all cabinets and drawers are fixed with safety latches. They will keep children away from harmful objects as they will not be able to open the latch.

2. Store harmful products

Any potentially harmful product, such as soaps, detergents, medicine, should be stored in an area that children cannot reach. Also, they should be placed away from food and beverage items.

3. Safety Caps

Used to cover unused plugs and outlets all over the house, safety caps are especially important for those near a water source.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is probably the most important room in the household. Besides being a place of food and comfort, it can be relatively dangerous. Kitchens house appliances, detergents, and sharp tools such as knives. This is why a childproof home starts in the kitchen.

1. Mind the stove

Stoves and children are a recipe for disaster. In order to avoid harm, use the back burners on the stove and turn pot handles towards the back.

2. Out of sight, out of mind

This a long shot since children love a good challenge but try as much as you can to keep all dangerous utensils away from kids. Don’t leave kitchen knives on the counter or in an easily opened and unlatched drawer.

The Bathroom

Next, we come to the bathroom, where young children should not be left alone unattended.

1. Toilet Locks

Toilet locks are essential in the bathroom because young children will not be able to lift the lid on their own. Children can easily fall into the toilet or simply play around and make a mess.

2. Unplug electrical appliances

This is a very important tip to remember since the danger of electrocution is a real concern. Unplug any and all electrical devices such as hairdryers and shavers after use. Then, store the electrical appliances in a safe place.

In and around the house

Children are wanderers by nature, they will seize the opportunity of an open door whenever they can. This is why you should childproof both the interior and exterior of your home.

1. Safety Gates

Placed at the top and bottom of stairs or in the doorways of rooms, safety gates keep children out of rooms that may be dangerous. They will keep them in a safe area unless accompanied by an adult.

2. Use door knob covers

Along with the gates, door knob covers are also an excellent idea to prevent children from entering certain rooms.

3. Corner Bumpers

Used on any edge and corner in the house, these childproof items are easy to install. While they cannot keep children from bumping into them, they act as a soft alternative to rough edges.

4. Furniture Placement

Children love climbing, this is why furniture should not be placed near high windows. Try to place furniture against blank walls where there is no harm.

5. Avoid dangling cords

Cords can be very lethal for children, as they can be a cause for strangulation. Cords must be placed away from children’s reach whether it’s from a window blind or a telephone. If you can, avoid cords in areas where the children usually play.

6. Secure furniture in place

Kids run around, and when they do, they can easily run into a bookcase or shelf that may tip over. Use anchors and brackets to keep furniture items in place.

7. Door Keys

Although it may be locked and latched, your front door still presents a potential danger. Keep doors locked and store the key in a safe place out of reach.

8. Safety Measures

Also, remember to educate your children on safety and prevention. Furthermore, you should always leave a list of emergency contacts.

For more about home safety see also:

How To Detect And Avoid Common Household Hazards

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