Baby Safety Month: How to childproof your home
Babies and toddlers are curious, but that curiosity can sometimes lead to danger in our homes.
As your children grow older, they will start to explore their surroundings. They may grab the cord dangling from the blinds, open a cabinet with household cleaners or step inside a dresser drawer. By taking some simple steps to childproof your home, you can make sure your children are safe.
Check out these home safety tips presented by Julie Traicoff, RN, public health nurse with the Oakland County Health Division, during a Sept. 16 Virtual Baby Safety Fair hosted by the Oakland County Health Division.
Bedroom safety
Keep crib away from windows.
Place guards on windows.
Secure blind cords high and out of reach of children.
Anchor “tippy” furniture to avoid falling onto child.
Place locks on dresser drawers.
Install smoke detector.
Avoid floor lamps.
Kitchen safety
Install safety locks for cabinets and appliances.
Place coffee pots, tea kettles and hot objects out of reach of children.
Cook on the back burners of stove.
Keep cleaning supplies locked up or out of reach of children.
Lock up sharp utensils.
Bathroom Safety
Place locks on toilets and cabinets.
Keep cleaning supplies locked up or out of reach of children.
Set water temperature to 90-100 F.
Never leave an infant/toddler alone in bath.
Living room and furniture safety
Anchor TV to the wall or mount it on the wall.
Install gates at top and bottom of stairs.
Anchor “tippy” furniture to avoid falling onto child.
Use outlet covers.
Place covers on doorknobs.
Gun Safety
Store firearm unloaded and locked up in a lock box, cable lock, or firearm safe.
Keep ammunition stored separately.
By taking the time now to childproof your home, you can help prevent injuries and keep your little ones safe!