Keeping Young Children Safe

Innocent children are very vulnerable to injury. At a young age, they cannot understand what is dangerous and what is not. Being curious explorers, they take great efforts to make new discoveries daily. While it is developmentally healthy for a child to investigate their world, they can often run into harm. Therefore, it is the duty of adults to protect them. Unfortunately, many children die because of preventable accidents. One of the most important things a parent can do is to make sure any area the child has access to has been thoroughly child proofed.

While you can child proof your home at any time, it is imperative that it be completed prior to your infant becoming mobile. The average age infants start to crawl is six months. However, children vary in growth patterns, so you should have your house baby proofed before six months of age. You do not want to be caught unprepared if you child starts crawling at an early age.

To prepare your home, cover all electrical outlets and install latches on the cabinets. The hot water heater should not exceed 130 degrees Farenheit. This will ensure your water cannot come out of the faucet at scalding temperatures that could burn your baby. All poisons, medicines, cleaners, and chemicals should be kept in their original packaging and locked up. Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers such as the doctor, poison control, and police department on the refrigerator door. Install gates at stairs and windows. If your house is not already equipped with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, purchase these now. Also, be sure to have a fire extinguisher on hand. Cover any sharp edges on furniture and anchor big pieces that could tip over to the floor.

To prevent slips and falls when your little on starts walking, back your rugs with non skid backing. Be sure nothing your child cannot have is at a low level. This includes anything breakable or little items that they can put into their mouth and choke on. Chords from blinds and appliances should be out of reach. Do not let your child close to any hot appliance. Keep doors to bathrooms closed to prevent your child to having access to water. If you have a pool, make sure there is a locked gate, so your child cannot get near it.