Baby-proofing your home for new arrivals can be quite daunting. Your little one might spend a lot of the time sleeping initially, but they’ll soon hit a time where curiousity takes over, and they’ll want to climb on and explore everything possible including poking their tiny fingers into dangerous places. The best advise is start as early as possible to allow time for you to make adjustments as your baby’s mobility develops.
Nursery & Playroom Check List:
Prevent Window Falls. Place your child’s cot and other furniture away from any windows. You can install childproof screens, or even better, window guards, which are proven to prevent falls. The best practise is if your windows only open 7.5cm, about the length of an adult fist, or they should have a window guard. If you have a low window, or a window seat, it’s imperative that you install a window guard.
Check the cot is set up safely. When your baby is able to sit up, it’s time to lower the cot mattress. If your cot has a side that drops down, it is recommended replacing it with a fixed-side cot. Be careful with fluffy toys as well as they’re a suffocation risk for babies, and they can make an easy step for a little one who wants to get out.
Dressers and bookshelves are secure. Every year, about 15,000 children end up in emergency rooms for injuries from furniture tip overs. All heavy furniture should be anchored to the wall or to the floor.
Cordless Window blinds. Tie all blind cords high out of reach, or cut the ends and attach breakaway safety tassels. Never put a crib or child’s bed near window blinds or drapes. Those dangling cords can be a choking risk
Crayons. Believe it or not, crayons can be quite dangerous. Little hands can snap a crayon in two, and then it’s small enough to choke on. It’s always best to supervise your child while he’s using art supplies, and possibly stick to the large, chubby crayons.
Balloons. As many as half of children’s choking deaths caused by toys are due to latex balloons. If a piece of a popped balloon ends up in a child’s mouth, the balloon can form over the entrance to his larynx, covering it like cling-wrap, and suffocate him/her. Some even suggest to avoid balloons until children are at least 8 years old.
Baby toys. Your baby’s toys should generally be safe for him/her. The toys should be much larger than his/her mouth, to prevent choking. Check that all the parts attached to a toy — like doll eyes or teddy bear bows — are securely fastened and can’t be torn off. Remove mobiles attached to a crib as soon as your baby can push up on his hands and knees.
Safer toy box. Choose a toy box with a safe design. Avoid boxes that have a hinged lid that could slam down. You want to look for one with a light, removable lid or one that slides. If the box has a hinged top, make sure it has a lid support that can prop the lid open. Pick a toy box with ventilation holes or a gap beneath the lid — in case your toddler climbs in.
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