If you’re a new parent, you likely have taken every possible step to ensure your home is a fortress of safety for your little one. All medications are securely stored, electrical outlets are covered, and sharp edges are nowhere to be found. Your infant is the safest non-mobile child around, and you should feel proud of your diligence.
However, if you’re on your third child, like I am, your approach to baby-proofing may have relaxed a bit. You may have once placed locks on every cabinet, but after moving to a new kitchen, those locks may have been forgotten. Your first child never touched the car keys, but by the time your third child came along, they might have chewed on the fob when you weren’t paying attention. While you might not leave a basket of steak knives on the coffee table, your baby-proofing isn’t quite as strict as it once was.
As children grow, it’s easy to neglect the safety rules you once followed closely, especially when nothing catastrophic occurs. However, it’s crucial to remember that baby-proofing is not only for infants. Certain safety measures should remain in place until children reach a much older age—beyond the obvious necessities like securing medications, cleaning supplies, sharp objects, and lighters.
Here’s a refresher on vital safety measures that may need your attention. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’ll help you revisit your baby-proofing strategy and ensure your home is a safe haven for your loved ones.
Watch Out for Button Batteries!
Button batteries can be found in many household items, including remote controls, toys, and even musical greeting cards. If a child swallows one, the consequences can be tragic. Make sure to secure any items containing button batteries to prevent access.
Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
To prevent serious burns, the CDC suggests setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Many water heaters default to 140 degrees, which can cause burns in under three seconds. Make this adjustment to keep your kids safe.
Keep Safety Gates Up Longer Than You Think Necessary
While your toddler may have mastered the stairs, it’s wise to keep safety gates installed until they are at least two years old or can open the gates themselves. Stair safety is crucial, and if your child attempts to climb over the gate, it’s time to remove it.
Anchor Furniture to the Wall
All freestanding furniture, like dressers and bookshelves, must be anchored securely to prevent tipping. This simple step can prevent life-threatening injuries.
Don’t Forget About Pools and Other Bodies of Water
Ensure your pool has a locking gate and proper safety measures, including adequate covers for hot tubs, ponds, and even inflatable baby pools. Drowning can happen quickly and silently; be proactive about water safety.
Lock Your Car
Always lock your car when you exit. Children can accidentally lock themselves inside or open doors and play inside the vehicle, which poses serious risks.
Be Aware of Strangulation Hazards
Long cords from blinds and electronics can pose strangulation risks. Consider using cordless blinds and ensure that any accessible cords are secured out of reach.
Store Firearms Securely
If you own firearms, they should be unloaded and stored in a locked safe, separate from ammunition. Teach children the importance of never touching a gun.
Baby-Proof Your Appliances
Ensure that appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and ovens are safe from curious hands. Lock appliances when not in use to avoid accidents.
Have Open Safety Conversations
Start discussing safety with your children early on. Regularly remind them of potential dangers, such as sharp objects or hot surfaces, to reinforce safe behavior.
Baby-proofing is essential, but teaching children to make safe choices is equally important for their safety at home and beyond. To learn more about keeping your home safe, you might enjoy this related post on home insemination and check out this resource on fertility. For further insights on maintaining safety in your life, you can explore this guide on makeup.
Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of maintaining safety measures in the home, even as children grow older. Key tips include securing button batteries, adjusting water heater temperatures, keeping safety gates in place, anchoring furniture, ensuring water safety, locking vehicles, addressing strangulation hazards, securely storing firearms, baby-proofing appliances, and having ongoing safety discussions.