According to reports, 2.5 million children are injured or killed due to hazards in the home every year. Fortunately, you can prevent injuries by installing simple child safety devices in your home.
Here are some safety devices that you can use to provide a safe and secure home for your children.
Safety Latches and Locks
Safety latches and locks on your cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and bathroom will prevent children from gaining access to medication, toxic substances, and sharp devices. The safety locks must be easy to install and use, but strong enough to withstand the tugs of a determined child. While these devices do not guarantee 100 percent protection, they will make it difficult for your child to access harmful substances. Lock away any potentially dangerous substances – even those in child-proof packaging.
Safety Gates
Safety gates should be used when stairs pose a risk to your child’s safety. They will keep your child away from the staircase or rooms that present multiple hazards. The ideal gate would be one that is difficult for a child to dislodge, but easy for an adult to open and close. Screw-in gates are more secure than pressure gates for the top of the staircase. Also, check that the spaces on the gate are not large enough for your child’s head to fit into.
Door Locks
Locks on your doors will help to keep children from entering areas where there are possible dangers. Use them on the pool gate so that your children cannot gain access to the pool without adult supervision. The locks should be sturdy to keep children, but not so complex that you cannot open a door quickly in case of emergency.
Anti-Scald Devices
Over 1 million children are treated in emergency rooms for hot water burns. If you have young children, it’s a smart idea to install anti-scald devices on your faucets and shower heads to prevent burns from hot water. You may need a plumber to install the device for you. While you’re at it, set your water temperature to 120F to prevent burns.
Smoke Detectors
It’s not enough to install smoke detectors in your home. You must check them at least once a month to ensure that they’re working. Change the batteries when needed or use 10 year batteries if you’re likely to forget.
Window Guards and Safety Netting
Window guards and netting will help to prevent falls from the deck, balcony, and windows. You’ll have to check the guards to ensure that they remain secure. Install an easy to remove guard on at least one window in each room so you can easily exit through the window in case of a fire.
Security Alarms
Call in a professional to install a monitored security alarm to protect your home from burglars and other uninvited guests. Ideally, the alarm should ring in your home as well as at the monitoring station – this way you can send a clear message to the intruder that you’re aware of his presence.
Nothing is more important than ensuring your children’s safety. Follow the simple tips outlined above, and you’ll be one step closer to a kid friendly home.
John Bowen is a child psychologist. He loves to share great parenting tips on homeowner and family blogs. Visit this site for more home security ideas.
Originally published July 2, 2013
Originally published July 2, 2013
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