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As holidays approach, now is a good time to assess your house for “childproofing.” All of us here at Peter Young Home Inspections want to you enjoy the holidays without having to worry about the safety of your children or young visitors. Here are some ways to make your home safer for the little ones.
Safety latches & locks
Kitchen and bathroom cabinets are hazardous places for children. Medicines, household cleaners, sharp knives, and more need to be kept out of children’s reach. Safety latches and locks on cabinets and drawers keep kids out and ensure your peace of mind. Ask at your home supply store or shop online for cabinet and drawer safety latches and locks.
Door locks
This one is simple: Locked doors help keep children from entering hazardous areas, such as laundry rooms and swimming pool enclosures. Be sure to install locks on these areas, and place them higher than children can reach.
Outlet covers & plates
Those common plastic plug inserts that you see in people’s homes: forget them! Most children older than two can just pull them out of the outlet. There are other options, such as the total outlet cover (pictured at right) or sliding receptacle covers. Ask at your home supply store, check in baby stores, or search online for child outlet covers.
Window guards & safety netting
Window guards and safety netting for balconies and decks can help keep kids safe from serious falls. If you use window guards, be sure there are no more than four inches of space between bars, or children can become trapped. Also, be sure one window in each room is left unbarred as an emergency fire escape. Keep this one closed and secured with a window latch out of children’s reach. WARNING: Don’t rely on window screens to prevent fall injuries. They can rip or pop out easily.
Safety gates
Avoid accidents on stairs and keep children out of dangerous areas with safety gates. Look for gates that children can’t open but are easy for adults to open and close. Look for gates with a Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) safety seal. These are far safer than older gates, which may have V shapes large enough to trap a child’s head or neck. Replace older gates if you are not sure. Gates at the top of staircases should be secured to the wall.
Window blind cords
Window blind cords and children are a dangerous combination. Despite improvements in the industry, children continue to be killed or injured by blind cords. For safety, cordless blinds are best. If your home has corded blinds and you can’t afford to replace them, cut the cord loops, remove the buckles, and install safety tassels designed to break in half under pressure.
These are all simple, common sense solutions to help make your home safer for children, not only during the upcoming holidays, but all year long. Be sure to take some time and effort to make your home child safe.
Inspect before you buy
Thinking of buying a home, especially one being sold as is? Know what you are buying. Make an appointment with Peter Young Home Inspections today.
