Home Safety for Toddlers and Small Children
By Mia
Thompson
If you have toddlers in your home, then safety is obviously a
big concern. They are big enough and mobile enough to go just about anywhere but
they little to no understanding of how dangerous some things might be. So, you
know that you need to toddler-proof your home but how do you go about it?
A great place to start is by placing ‘baby gates’ at the top
and bottom of the stair case to prevent injuries. Be sure that you purchase a
gate that is sturdy and can be easily fastened to the wall, railing or some
other solid surface on or near the stairs. Even with a baby gate, never leave a
toddler unattended near the stairs.
Next on the list to put child safety latches on all cupboard and
cabinet doors the child could possibly reach. Remember, toddlers can climb! Pa
extra attention the cabinets under the kitchen or bathroom sink or anyplace you
store medicine, cleaning supplies, garden chemicals or poisons. In the garage or
storage shed, store all weed killers and chemicals in a locked cabinet and place
the key in a location where your child cannot find it.
When it comes to toddler safety, prevention is the best method.
Store your child’s books and toys at their level so they do not have to climb
to get to their favorite game or stuffed animal. If your child has a lamp, fan
or other electrical appliance in his/her room, tuck cords safely behind
furniture so the child cannot pull anything down on himself.
Avoid choking hazards by keeping young children away from small
objects, pieces of toys, and small pieces of board games. Read manufacturer
instructions for all toys and follow their guidelines. Buy only those toys and
games that are appropriate for a child of a particular age. Place plastic safety
plugs in electrical outlets so the child cannot stick his fingers in the outlet.
One aspect of home safety that is often overlooked is mildew and
mold. Mildew and mold can cause serious illness and injury in adults and
toddlers alike. Mold or mildew can be the cause of allergies and asthma in small
children. Install a dehumidifier in any damp areas to mitigate the moisture in
the air.