This checklist addresses safety issues in and around the home. You do not have to change everything in your house – but be aware of the dangers!
General
o Gate for stairs, you may want to consider a gate at the top and one at the bottom of the stairs
o Make sure the bars of the banister rail are not too far apart
o Socket covers
o No poisonous / prickly plants, ie Swiss Cheese Plant
o Non-skid matting under rugs
o Protective caps on edges / corners of tables
o Lockable window handles
o Security glass in door panels
Kitchen
o Cleaning chemicals, plastic bags, bin liners, batteries etc stored out of reach in lockable cupboard
o Do not put harmful substances in old drinks bottles or food containers
o When cooking, always turn pots and pan handles towards the back of the hob
o Cupboard door and drawer safety catches
o Do not leave the leads from kitchen equipment trailing over the edge of the work surface ie kettles
o Unplug kitchen equipment after use
Utility Room
o Always store heavy machines in a safe place
o Beware of trailing cables
o All chemicals should be stored in a locked cupboard
o Best of all: lock the door!
Bathroom and Toilet
o All medicines should be in a locked cabinet
o Adjust the hot water thermostat so that a child can not be scalded
o Non-slip mats in the bath and for the bathroom floor
o Cleaning chemicals should be stored in a locked cupboard
Child's Bedroom
o Shelf units and wardrobes should be screwed to the walls
o Try to find furniture without sharp edges
o Put heavy objects on the lowest shelves
o Put toys where they can be easily reached
There is a lot to consider when you want to make your baby's environment safe and there are some essential rules which we all have to keep in mind. There are some, like having a safety catch on a drawer, which may not always be essential (provided the drawer does not contain any harmful things). Too much caution does not help your baby's confidence and development. Every baby goes through a phase of 'clumsiness'. They open and close every door and catch their fingers; they open and close drawers and again catch their fingers; they pull themselves up and hold on to furniture until they see you and wave. What happens? They lose their balance and fall! They need to experience this in order to prepare for life. They have to learn the hard way, unfortunately. Mother Nature makes sure that they learn not to injure themselves in the future. So do not worry about a few tears. By leaving them to explore their environment independently, it will strengthen their coordination and confidence.