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
