When preparing to have a baby, your to-do list can get a bit overwhelming. And safeguarding your child from any potential hazards be even more stressful. That's why we've compiled an essential baby safety checklist to keep that stress at bay. Whether you're a new parent or an experienced caregiver, this checklist will give you the knowledge and tools needed to prioritize your baby's well-being. Print out and check off each necessary task to create a safe haven for your baby.
Key Points
- It's crucial to safeguard your home well before your baby arrives.
- When childproofing the home, you should install gates, secure cabinets, place outlet covers, and ensure the safety of electrical cords and window locks.
- Other safety measures to help safeguard your home are to adjust the hot water heater temperature, store medicines properly, use rubber mats in the bathtub, and keep kitchen items out of reach.
Childproofing Checklist
____ Get down on your hands and knees to help detect hazards that children can get to
____ Place gates at the top and bottom of all stairs
____ Install childproof latches on appropriate cabinets, drawers, etc.
____ Put the following out of reach of children: hazardous materials, breakable objects, rope, string, etc.
____ Place night lights where necessary to prevent falls
____ Place outlet covers on all empty electrical outlets which children can reach (ensure the covers do not pose a choking hazard)
____ Tuck electrical cords out of the way
____ Unplug appliances and cords when not in use
____ Shorten drape and blind cords and/or cut off the knot at the end
____ Install window guards and/or locks
____ Install gates at the top and bottom of stairs
____ Lower hot water heater temperature to less than 130°F
____ Store medicines in childproof containers
____ Lock appropriate cabinets and drawers
____ Place rubber mats in the bathtub and shower
____ Turn the pot handles on the stove away from the front
____ Determine if there is a hazard to children from lead paint (use of lead paint was restricted in 1978)
____ Put the following kitchen items out of reach of children:
– Plastic bags
– Dishwashing liquid
– Cleaning fluids
– Hot liquids
– Knives
By following this baby safety checklist, you can rest assured that you've taken the appropriate steps to protect your child from any potential hazards. It's important to note that this checklist should provide you with a good baseline for any risks in your home. There may be other potential hazards in your home that may be hazardous.
