1. Cover outlets.
We all know that children like to stick objects where they don’t belong, and that can be a dangerous habit at times.
A quick and easy solution is to buy some outlet covers to put over your outlets. Many outlet covers are designed so that you can still use the outlets, as the covers have openings at the bottom for cords to come out. These can also help prevent your child from unplugging things, such as your computer, while you’re trying to use them.
You can also get outlet plugs to cover up any outlets that you’re not currently using. If you’re looking for more of a long-term solution, you can also replace your existing outlets with modern outlets that use a shutter system to prevent children from pushing objects into them.
2. Put locks on cabinets and drawers.
Cabinets and drawers are nearly always irresistible to small children, which can be a problem. Children getting into drawers and cabinets can sometimes just be a nuisance as they pull things out or put things in, but it can also be a safety hazard if those drawers or cupboards contain products that could harm your child.
There are a number of locks out there, from simple plastic safety catches to more elaborate magnetic systems. There are so many options that making a decision can be difficult, but the best way to choose is to consider the design of your cupboards and drawers and then see which options would actually work for you.
3. Attach bookcases to walls.
Bookcases, whether large or small, can be a serious safety hazard. You might not think that a small child could move a big bookcase filled with books, but when children start trying to climb everything, a bookcase looks like a jungle gym and the weight of your child could tip the bookcase over.
To attach a bookcase to the wall, you can simply screw the back panel into the wall. Some bookcases even come with straps that you can attach to the wall and the bookcase to prevent the bookcase from tipping.
4. Cover or remove sharp edges.
When children start to move around more, whether they’re crawling or walking, they often don’t have very good balance. If you have a coffee table with sharp edges, you should consider covering the edges so that your child doesn’t hit their head on them if they trip or fall. There are many different types of corner guards out there, so you can find some that match the color and style of your table.
5. Move breakable items out of reach.
This last step might seem like an obvious one, but it’s also an easy one to forget. Breakable objects can be major safety hazards. If a child manages to break a glass vase, for example, those glass shards can cut them badly.
Not only should breakable objects be placed well out of reach, they should also be placed far from edges where they could potentially fall.
