As a new parent, your home likely feels like a fortress of safety, meticulously baby-proofed to ensure your little one is secure. All medications are stored away, outlets are covered, and sharp edges are nowhere to be found. Your infant is the safest non-mobile child around, and you’re proud of it.
However, if you’re a parent of multiple children, the vigilance of baby-proofing may have relaxed. Once, every cabinet was locked, but with each subsequent child, you might find yourself taking shortcuts. Your firstborn was never allowed near car keys, while the youngest might have chewed on the fob when you weren’t paying attention. Although you’re not leaving steak knives out on the coffee table, your approach to safety may have shifted over time.
It’s easy to overlook safety precautions as your kids grow older and nothing major happens. Yet, baby-proofing is not just for infants. Some safety measures are critical to maintain even as your children become more independent, beyond the obvious ones like securing medications and dangerous tools. Here’s a refresher to help you keep your home safe for your family.
Be Aware of Button Batteries!
Button batteries can be found in a variety of household items, from remote controls to toys and even flameless candles. If ingested, they can cause severe injury or even be fatal. If you suspect your child has swallowed one, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Make sure to identify and secure any items containing button batteries during your baby-proofing efforts.
Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
To prevent burns, the CDC recommends setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps ensure that children have time to escape hot water before being scalded. New homes often have water heaters set to 140 degrees, which can burn a child in mere seconds.
Keep Safety Gates Installed Longer Than You Think
Even if your toddler is adept at climbing stairs, it’s wise to keep gates at the top and bottom until they are at least two years old or can open the gates by themselves. If you have a climber, take down the gate to prevent potential accidents. Remind older siblings not to use the gates inappropriately.
Anchor All Heavy Furniture
Dressers, bookcases, and appliances must be securely anchored to prevent tipping. Falling furniture can lead to serious injuries. While it may leave marks on your walls, the safety of your child is paramount.
Don’t Forget About Hot Tubs and Ponds
Pool safety is essential, with locking gates and alarms being a must. But also ensure that hot tubs, ponds, or baby pools are secured, as drowning can happen quickly and silently.
Always Lock Your Car
Locking your car is a simple yet effective way to prevent accidents. Children can accidentally become trapped inside vehicles, which can lead to dangerous situations.
Check for Strangulation Hazards
Cords from blinds and long electrical cables can pose strangulation risks. If possible, replace blinds with cordless options, and ensure that any cords are secured out of reach.
Secure Firearms Properly
If you have firearms in your home, they should be unloaded and stored in a locked safe, separate from ammunition. Reinforce to children that they should never touch guns.
Baby-Proof Your Appliances
Make sure appliances are secure and that children can’t access potentially dangerous items. Washing machines, dishwashers, and stoves can all be hazards if left unmonitored.
Initiate Safety Conversations Early
Start discussing safety with your children from a young age. Even babies should hear warnings about outlets, while toddlers can understand the difference between safe and unsafe objects.
While baby-proofing is crucial, teaching your child about safe choices is equally important. For more tips on parenting and home safety, check out this post on wholesome meals. Also, for guidance on enhancing fertility, visit Make a Mom, and learn more about infertility treatments here.
Summary
Safety in the home is an ongoing process, not limited to infancy. By maintaining critical safety measures, parents can protect their children as they grow. Regularly inspect your home for potential hazards and engage in conversations about safety.
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