Expectant parents take on a variety of tasks to get ready for the new addition to their family. From decorating the nursery to purchasing age-appropriate toys, most couples plan down to the very last detail. For this reason, baby proofing a home can be a stressful ordeal for new parents, but with the proper checklist to follow, the process does not have to be difficult.
Indoor hazards
The first and most obvious task new parents take on is cleaning their home from top to bottom. Remove all dust bunnies, clean the linens and replace old, worn towels, floor mats and curtains that may be holding in dirt and dust. After the home is properly cleaned, new parents can start installing baby safety tools. For example, baby gates are crucial for homeowners who have stairs. There are several different types of baby gates available, and each one may be suited for certain types of stairways and other home features. Parents should speak to a store representative to find the one that best suits their needs.
When babies begin crawling and walking, falls and spills are of particular concern for parents. Homeowners can lower this risk by removing loose objects from a child’s reach, such as moving books and objects to higher locations and making sure all furniture is firmly mounted to prevent it from toppling over. In addition, parents are advised to remove cords from window blinds or tuck them out of reach. Toddlers often use these cords to try to hoist themselves up when learning to walk. In addition, they may pose a strangulation risk.
Keeping dangerous items out of reach is another important measure to take. Use slide-on covers to create a barrier between babies and electrical outlets. When appliances are not being used, it’s also a good idea to unplug them from the wall and secure the outlet with a cover. Parents should also purchase locks to make cabinets that hold cleaning supplies, medicines and other toxins inaccessible to children.
Outdoor hazards
Swimming pools, jacuzzis and fountain ponds may add real estate value or appeal to a home, but they can pose potential drowning hazards for toddlers who wander outdoors. Installing fences or gates around these areas can prevent babies from gaining access to these areas. Lastly, all home maintenance and lawn equipment should be kept in a locked shed or garage to prevent toddlers from injuring themselves.
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