Your home where your family stays most of their lives. You want to make sure that they grow up in a safe and welcoming one.
Check below safety tips on how to set up safe space for the young ones.
Making Your Home Safer: Where to Start
Take a Walk Through Your Space
Try to look at your home from a child's perspective. Take a quick tour at your house and check those tables with sharp corners, cleaning supplies that are under the sink, take a list of the areas and things that feel risky for your children. Fix one space at a time.
Lock It, Secure It, Anchor It
Most kids have their own superpower wherein they love climbing anywhere, pulling and grabbing anything, like a superpower. It is important that furniture (TVs, dressers, etc.) is secured because things can be easily tip over if someone tries to climb them.
Dangerous Items? Out of Sight, Out of Reach
Medications, cleaning items, or any other hazardous materials are very dangerous to the kids, hence must be placed in cabinets with locks. Make sure that your items are stored properly and securely. Sharp materials must be out of their reach and must be placed somewhere that they cannot grab.
Install Safety Gates and Barriers
There are potentially dangerous areas in the house, so try using safety gates to keep children out.
Barriers can be used if you have rooms with open floor plans. Barriers can create designated areas where children can stay without supervision.
Plug Outlets and Tame the Cords
Open outlets are a constant risk for toddlers. Using plastic caps or sliding covers is a simple fix, but you also need to hide the cords where children cannot pull or trip over.
For peace of mind, having an electrician check your house is worth it.
Don’t Forget Windows and Doors
Doors and windows must also be triple checked. Ensure to install window locks and avoid placing furniture or anything where kids can climb near the windows.
For the doors, consider installing finger-pinch guards to protect hands. To prevent slamming, add doorstops.
Consider Outdoor Safety
If a property has a garden, yard, or other outdoor features, they need to be safe same as the inside.
Inspect outdoor equipment regularly to check if they're still okay and not broken.
Alarms and Fire Plans
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are a must in all spots of the house. It is also the best idea to have a fire escape plan, even a simple one, and practice it along with your children so all of you will be prepared.
Teach and Empower Your Kids
Talking to children and letting them understand the dangers and must be taught why there are things they cannot do. This way, they will be knowledgeable and you are confident that they can be safe on their own.
Keep Up with The Changes
Children grow fast, as do the safety measures needed to protect them. Do not forget to double check your home's safety measures and make updates if needed.
Just starting with a few steps and making them a habit will make a big difference in keeping your home safe as your kids grow.
Connect with Michelle Graci at Estate of Mind Ojai when you’re ready to find your dream home in Ojai.
