Home Builder Jacksonville | Your children may have a room full of toys, but that won’t stop them from trying to stick their cute little fingers into electrical sockets or explore under the kitchen sink. November is Child Safety and Protection Month, so here are a few tips for any new or seasoned mom or dad to childproof your home.
1. Covers for outlets and power strips
If you already have a little one running around, this may seem like an obvious suggestion. Outlet covers are important to ensure that your child is not able to stick his or her hands into the electrical sockets. It’s also a good idea to get covers for power strips, even if you think they are hidden well enough behind a piece of furniture. You never know where these little ones will end up!
2. Stove knob covers
Anything at toddler height should be childproofed. Stove knobs may be overlooked by a parent, but not by a curious toddler. Stove knob covers will lock the stove knob in place so that your child can’t play with them. These are easily removed when it’s time to cook; just remember to put them back on once you are done with the stove.
3. Cabinet and drawer locks
You will want to invest in locks for any cabinets or drawers that may interest a child. Many times, we keep harmful cleaning solutions in our kitchen or bathroom cabinets, so be sure to place locks on those storage areas. Drawers can also be a problem, especially the ones that hold sharp objects like knives and forks.
4. Corner guards
Those kitchen table corners may look innocent, until your toddling child bumps into one! Check your home for any sharp edges that may present a risk to your child, such as kitchen or coffee table corners. Corner guards are made of a soft material and easily cover sharp corners to prevent your children from hurting themselves on these edges.
5. Fireplace screen
If you have a fireplace in your home, you will want to get a screen for it. This is something you will want to get even if you don’t plan on using your fireplace, as your little one may still want to explore this area. The screen will prevent a child from possibly slipping and falling into this space.
6. Stair gates
For some reason, little ones love to play near the stairs! A child falling down the stairs is a big fear for parents. To calm those fears, I suggest getting a gate to put at the top of your stairs to stop your toddler from taking a tumble. It will save you a lot of crying, or even a trip to the ER!
7. Window covers
When it comes to windows, a window screen just won’t cut it for your child’s safety. It doesn’t matter if you live on the first floor or the 19th, if you have a child running around the home you should have window covers to prevent your child from falling out of the window.
8. Guard garbage disposal switches
This one is a big personal fear of mine, as many homes have the switch for the garbage disposal at a level that can be easily reached by a child. I once toured a home with expecting parents and noticed that the garbage disposal knob was at toddler height. I warned them that this was not a good height for anyone with a child. If you have a garbage disposal, be sure to check where the knob is, and make sure to child proof it by locking the knob or locking the door to where the knob may be located.
9. Childproof the outdoors, too!
It is a good idea to walk around your property to see what your child could potentially get into. You may find boulders or sharp rocks that you will want to take care of before letting your child play outside. Also, check for ditches or holes that your child may fall into and be sure to fill them. These areas can easily be missed if they are covered by tree brush or leaves, so be sure to check every inch of the yard for any hazardous terrain. - Redfin
Interested in a Jacksonville home builder? Please do not hesitate to contact us at Landon Homes, (904)567-3430!
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