Childproofing Checklist

Babyproofing your home before your child starts crawling and especially once they are on the move is important for the safety of the child. Here is a comprehensive checklist of what needs to happen in each room of the house:

KITCHEN:

• Add appliance latches to oven, fridge, dishwasher and all other lower appliances
• Add child-proof door latches to all cupboards and drawers below counter level
• Install a stove guard and knob handle covers
• Move knives into locked drawer instead of the counter top
• Remove table cloths from tables if there are heavy items on top that could be pulled off and hurt the child
• Install a safety cover on the garbage disposal

AROUND THE HOME:

• Add electrical plug covers throughout the home
• Hide all cords or user cord storage boxes. Ensure that if a cord was pulled, nothing heavy could fall on the child
• Add baby gates at the top and bottom of stairs and to dangerous rooms (garage)
• Add locks to all doors and windows
• Install corner and edge bumpers, if desired
• Secure all large furniture to the walls
• Secure all guns and other dangerous weapons in a locked safe
• Remove all toxic plants from the home
• Secure up high or remove window coverings with hanging cords. You can buy venetian blinds online that are cordless. Install window guards

BATHROOM:

• Add a child-proof latch to the medicine cabinet (even if it is located higher up)
• Check the water temperature to make sure it is not above 120 degrees Fahrenheit or have a plumber install an anti-scald device
• Add non-slip mats or stickers to the bathtub floor
• Never leave flat-irons or curling irons on when unattended and ensure the cord is not dangling below the counter

LIVING ROOM:

• Block the fireplace with a cover or gate

CHILD’S ROOM:

• Purchase a crib approved by baby safety associations and do not use bumpers
• Install a fire latter outside the child’s window once they are old enough to use it safely
• Remove any sharp toys or anything that could wrap around a child’s neck

OUTSIDE:

• Add a fence or safety cover to the pool