When you were expecting your baby, you probably received a gift of safety devices; outlet covers, cabinet locks and baby gates. As soon as your newborn rolled over the first time, you probably installed everything to keep your child safe. Have you taken a minute lately to see how safe your home is for your growing toddler or elementary school age child?
Unfortunately, more than 33% of all childhood injuries and deaths occur in the home, which should be the safest place of all. As your child grows and changes, New Canaan Pediatrics is here to remind you that your safety measures should change too.
First, parents should get down to their child’s level, on hands and knees perhaps, and observe what kids can get into or reach. Make sure sharp objects like knives and scissors are in upper cabinets. When cooking, turn pan handles to the back to avoid your child pulling hot foods on top of themselves. Covers should be installed on oven and stove burner dials to prevent your child from turning on the gas.
Toxic substances, household cleaners, detergents, and medicines should all be stored in cabinets with child-proof safety latches. If cabinet latches aren’t realistic, store dangerous materials up high and well out of reach.
If you have older kids and younger kids, go through toys often to remove any choking hazards from the reach of younger kids.
Provide soft, stable and sturdy furnishings to cruise around when babies are learning to walk. Keep electric outlets covered to conceal the tiny openings that attract fingers and small toys. Anchor anything your child is capable of climbing on or around, such as bookshelves, entertainment stands or dressers, to the wall with safety brackets. Protect your child from injuries caused by falling into the sharp edges of your furniture, fireplaces and wall corners by covering edges with foam covers, such as split pool noodles.
Firearms demand special care; these should be unloaded, locked and stored in a securely locked box or cabinet far out of reach of children.
Windows can be a serious, deadly danger. Window screens will not support the weight of a child so prevent accessible windows from being opened more than a few inches by installing window safety bars. Blinds, curtains, or shades with hanging cords can entangle and asphyxiate a child. Cords should be secured up and away from the child and, where possible, replaced with window treatments without hanging cords.
Home safety shouldn’t stop just because your child is no longer a toddler. Check your home’s safety every few months to keep your whole family safe for years to come.
Do you have questions about childproofing your home? Contact your New Canaan Pediatrics provider through your patient portal and we’ll be happy to help!