Creating A Child-Proofed House Or Apartment
Posted by Babies - 06/03/10 at 04:03 pmThere are all kinds of things to think about at the beginning of a pregnancy. The moment you find out that a baby is coming, there are lifestyle changes to be made. You shop for maternity wear, and perhaps start to design a nursery for the child. You choose wallpaper, and pick out furniture. When you start planning a baby shower, you might register for baby clothes, strollers, cribs and other items you need.
At this beginning stage, the things you have to purchase are on your mind more than the things you have to hide. Infants cannot get around by themselves, so there is less danger of them getting into things. However, right around the time you can fit back into your skinny jeans, it will be time to start planning for a crawling baby, and learning how to baby-proof your home. You need to figure out the items that are safe for the baby, and the ones that need to be hidden.
Keep the Baby Safe From Burns and Electricity
Heat and electricity can be real dangers when there is a baby around. Never keep an item like a curling iron or portable space heater in a place where the baby could reach it. Be sure to buy plastic covers for the electrical sockets, to keep curious fingers out. Fireplaces should always have a barrier around them, and fire should never, ever be burning unsupervised.
Keep Poisonous Items Away
If something is harmful or poisonous when swallowed, it should be completely out of the child’s reach. Cleaning supplies belong in the topmost cabinets. If this can’t be done, then they cabinets where they are stored should be locked. Any pills should be in bottles that are child proof. Cleaning supplies and medications should always be put away after use. You should also place dog or cat food out of baby’s reach.
Other Concerns
Not only do you need to keep harmful items away from the baby, you need to be sure to cover all staircase entrances, as a crawling child could topple down the stairs. There is a wide selection of baby gates available. These gates cover the top and bottom of the staircase, blocking it from the curious baby. You should purchase only toys that are designated for a child’s age group. If the toy is for an older child, it could contain small pieces that a baby might try to put in its mouth. You must also take extra care in cleaning up any broken glass or spills. It takes planning and vigilance, but you can definitely create a safe environment for your child.
