Parenting Blog

by Nancy Fair

Accidents in the home are the primary cause of death among children in the US. Toddlers in particular are curious and want to explore their surroundings with their new found mobility. Frequently, however, their curious natures cause them some problems.

Many of these injuries, though, can be easily avoided. All you need to do is implement a few simple precautions. If you want to keep your child from harm, follow these toddler safety tips for your peace of mind.

Throughout the Home

* Large pieces of furniture that are prone to tipping, like a shelving unit, should be fastened to the wall using brackets.

* Use doorknob covers to keep your toddler out of rooms that pose potential hazards. As well, she won’t be able to escape from the house when you’re not watching.

* Make sure your window blinds don’t have looped cords. They have been the cause of strangulation among young children in a number of cases.

* Electrical outlets should always have protective covers. This will keep out curious fingers and small objects that can lead to electrocution.

In the Kitchen

Be sure to install safety latches on all your kitchen cabinets and drawers. This helps prevent young children from accessing your cleaning products, many of which are toxic. As well, they won’t be able to get hold of sharp objects such as knives or scissors from the drawers.

Use the back burners on the stove when you’re cooking. Any pots should have the handles turned inward so your little one can’t grab them. When you’re using the oven, block off access to it to avoid accidental burns.

Bathroom Safety

You’ll also need safety latches on the cabinets and drawers of your bathroom. Make sure that cleaning products and medicinal products are locked up safe from your little one’s grasp. As soon as you’re done with them, unplug appliances like your curling iron or electric shaver. Put them somewhere where your child can’t reach them.

A toilet latch is essential in order to keep the lid closed. Because toddlers are top heavy, it’s not hard for them to fall into the toilet when they’re exploring it. Remember that a small child can drown in less than an inch of water. So it’s essential to supervise them in the bathroom at all times.

Take an objective look at your home to spot any other possible sources of danger. Deal with them immediately. With these precautions and some common sense, raising toddlers can be easy and fun.

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