The most effective way to ensure your child’s safety at home is to take a baby’s point of view to look for anything that could pose a danger. And as your child starts to walk and climb you will have to re-evaluate your home. Here is a checklist:
Around the house
- Cover sharp furniture edges with padding or foam.
- Cover all plugs with safety covers.
- Hide electrical cords behind furniture or use cord-hiding devices.
- Use doorstops and door holders.
- Cut looped window blinds.
- If you have a fireplace install a grill. Never leave your child there unattended.
- Keep electronic equipment out of reach or locked away.
- Secure any and all furniture that can topple over.
Kitchen
- Install safety locks on all cabinets and doors and put household items, including cleaning products, cutlery and appliances outside children’s reach.
- Do not leave hot pots or pans unattended on the stove.
- Put a latch on the oven, microwave and fridge door and install covers on stove dials.
- Put a lid on the dustbin.
- If you have a dishwasher or washing machine, keep it closed.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and out of reach of children.
Bathroom
- Install a toilet lid lock.
- Put sharp objects and electrical appliances in a locked cabinet or high up in a linen closet.
- Store medications and vitamins out of reach of children.
- Place a non-slip mat inside and outside the bath and shower. Never leave your child in a bath or shower unattended.
Garden
- Keep all pools covered with the correct covers at all times.
- Store and lock away all tools like power and gardening tools, as well as fertilisers and pesticides.
- Maintain play equipment. Look for signs of wear or rust.
- Remove toxic plants from your home or garden.
General
- Take a first-aid course. Parents, caregivers and domestic workers should be proficient in CPR and basic first aid.
- Keep a comprehensive first-aid kit at home.
- Pin a detailed list of emergency numbers on the fridge and keep it next to the phone. Save ER24’s emergency number, 084 124, on your phone.