Childproofing Your Home

There are numerous products on the market that are intended to help new parents make their homes safer for little ones. The beauty of many of these items is that they are incredibly inexpensive. Most cost less than $3, with the exception of baby gates, which average around $30. Nonetheless, it's much cheaper than even one copayment to the doctor's officer or emergency room. See the list below to learn about a some of these items, how to use them, and other tips to make your home child safe.

Must-Have Products:

• Plug covers hide outlets that are not in use, preventing little ones from sticking inquisitive fingers into the holes and getting electrocuted.
• Sturdy baby gates keep small children out of spaces you don't want them to be in, whether it be your formal living room or staircases. Note: Some baby gates are not for use at the top or bottom of staircases. Be sure to get one that is acceptable for that use if you're planning on installing it there.
• Cord winders pick up excess slack in mini blind cords, which can strangle children. Different cord winders are also available for standard electrical cords, keeping them out of the way so that toddlers cannot become entangled in them or trip over them.
• Toilet locks enable toilet lids to be lifted up with the flip of a latch for adults and older children, but keep toddlers out. Since children can drown in any standing water more than an inch deep, including the water in toilets, toilet locks are a wise purchase.
• Drawer and cupboard locks keep small children out of bathroom and kitchen cabinets. However, you don't want your cleaning solvents or other poisons stored in low cupboards on the day they decide to figure out how to open them, so store them elsewhere.
• Finger pinch guards wrap around the edges of your doors, acting like a bumper, so that tots cannot slam doors on their tiny fingers.
• Doorknob covers are large plastic covers that spin freely unless you have a big enough grip and the hand strength to open them. They're great for any doorknob leading to the outside.
• Patio door locks are essential if your toddler can slide the screen or glass patio door open. Many toddlers are escape artists, terrifying for parents who turn around for one second and find that their child isn't anywhere in the house.

Precautions:

• Make sure play areas are fenced in, and that gates are latched with padlocks or a catch that is too high up for a small child to open.
• Other latches are available for refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers-- all airtight appliances where a child can suffocate in minutes.
• Make sure your water heater has been adjusted to prevent scalding by children who are curious about water faucets.
• Remove all electrical appliances in range of the bathtub or any other standing water. Unplug all those that you don't remove.
• Little children love dials and buttons, just like those on the toaster oven and microwave. Unplug them when not in use to prevent fire or electrocution.