Childproofing your home is an important step for any parent or foster carer to ensure a safe
environment for infants, toddlers and young children. As curious little ones start exploring their
surroundings and becoming more mobile, potential household hazards can turn into accidents and
injuries if left unaddressed. By following some simple childproofing techniques, you can prevent
many common dangers and make your home safer and more family-friendly.
Secure Sharp Objects and Small Items
One of the first things you’ll want to address is securing sharp objects like kitchen knives and tools
which inquisitive hands can reach. Use safety latches on all drawers and cabinets containing these
items. It’s also important to keep small objects like coins, marbles, batteries and small toy parts out
of reach as these pose a choking risk if swallowed.
Protect Edges and Install Safety Gates
Protect little heads and bodies from hard edges like fireplaces, tables and countertops by installing
soft padded guards that cushion falls. Corner cushions can be wrapped around sharp table corners
as well. Proper safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs, around fireplaces and restricting
access to other dangerous areas will prevent serious falls. Use hardware-mounted safety gates
rather than pressure-mounted ones, which can be dislodged by clever climbers. Parents and foster
carers fostering in Scotland or other areas should also consider safety gates to protect children from
potential outdoor hazards.
Socket Covers and Cord Management
Buy protective socket plugs and cord wraps to prevent electrocution and strangulation risks. Socket
cover installation is quick and inexpensive. Tidy loose cords from blinds, appliances and phone
chargers to eliminate tripping and choking hazards. Mount flat-screen TVs securely so they don’t tip
over if pulled on. Also, use straps or anchors to secure top-heavy furniture like bookcases,
wardrobes and dressers to the wall studs so they don’t tip onto climbing kids.
Lock Up Medications and Toxic Substances
Always store medications, cleaning products, health and beauty supplies locked up and out of a
child’s sight and reach. The kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room tend to house many toxic
products, so place safety latches on any cabinets containing these items.
Door and Window Guards
Prevent falls from windows and doors leading outside by installing sturdy, child-resistant window
and door guards. These allow fresh air in while preventing even small openings that could allow a
child’s body to fit through. Door knob covers will deter kids from wandering outside unattended as
well. Window blinds should also be cordless to eliminate strangulation risk.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Ensure your home has adequate smoke detectors as well as carbon monoxide detectors to avoid
injury and death from gas leaks or fire. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice annually.
Share emergency escape plans with older children and have regular family fire drills for
preparedness.
Following basic childproofing guidelines tailored to your child’s age can transform a house into a
safer environment for infants and children to grow, play and explore their surroundings. Start simple
by securing hazards in frequented rooms then work room to room in a methodical manner. The
minor effort and expense to childproof is well worth the improved safety, reduced anxiety and
peace of mind for both children and caregivers.