Parents and grandparents must make sure their home is a safe place for kids. Caregivers must follow all critical precautions concerning water safety, fire safety, and other aspects. Use our checklist to eliminate possible hazards for the youngsters.
Aside from the physical environment, you should also monitor the areas of the digital space your kids access. Using iPhone monitoring apps, you can protect them from online dangers like adult video and cyberbullying, and know their location when they are out and about. In the house, follow the rules below.
Fire and Burn Safety
- Develop a fire escape plan and practice it.
- Change batteries in the smoke detector regularly (it must be installed on every floor and outside every bedroom).
- Lock up lighters and matches.
- Set the water heater at 120 °F (49 °C) and place guards around it.
- Install guards around the fireplace.
- Never place cups or mugs with hot drinks on the edges of the table.
- Buy flame-resistant sleepwear for your kids.
Electrical Safety
- Install ground fault circuit interrupters.
- Keep all power strips and cords out of reach.
- Cover unused outlets with plastic plugs.
- Do not use loose plugs or frayed cords.
Water Safety
- Your kid should never be alone near water or in it.
- To prevent slipping in the shower or bathtub, use non-slip strips or a mat.
- Always close the toilet lid and use a lock if necessary.
- When sailing or walking around bodies of water, have your kid wear a life jacket.
- Fence your pool, hot tub, or spa on all sides.
Prevention of Poisoning
- Any detergents, makeup, medicine, batteries, and other products dangerous for kids must be stored in a locked cabinet.
- Do not pour unsafe liquids into other bottles.
- Choose goods with child-resistant caps.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector on every floor.
Falls
- When changing diapers, keep the supplies within reach, so you do not leave your kid alone on the bed, sofa, etc.
- Do not install accordion gates at the top or bottom of the stairs, use self-latching doors instead.
- Give any furniture in your kids’ room away from the windows.
- Do not use wheeled baby walkers.
- Window screens are not enough — place guards or safety nets on all windows, balconies, landings, and decks.
Kitchen
- Use back burners when cooking.
- Prevent your kids from turning on the oven — get a stove shield or knob covers.
- Keep sharp objects in high cabinets or lock them.
- Make sure your kids cannot reach any hot liquids and dishes.
- Make sure all large appliances like the fridge are firmly affixed, so they cannot be knocked over.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and explain to your kids and other family members how to use it.
Emergency Numbers
Enter local emergency numbers into the address book on your smartphone. Write them on a Post-It note and keep it in a place where your kids can see them. Explain what numbers to call if something goes wrong while you are not at home.