Many parents overlook this area, yet approximately 2½ million children are injured or killed each year due to household hazards.
Safety latches on cabinet doors, or drawers may irritate you, but the first time your child is prevented from getting into something dangerous, you’ll realize it’s worth the fraction of time and effort it takes for you to work the latch. Children are curious and want to see what’s in drawers and cabinets. Such things as cleaning chemicals, knives, and medicine can cause lethal injuries. Most safety latches are easy to install, but they must be firm enough so the child cannot tug on the door, or drawer to open it.
A good way to determine what you need is to get down on your hands and knees and crawl through the house. You will see the underside of chairs and tables, you will notice sharp edges, wall sockets, and other hazards you wouldn’t normally think about, but that are accessible to your small child.
Electrical outlet covers can prevent children from getting an accidental electrical shock or
possible electrocution. They are inexpensive, effective and can be purchased from most stores
that carry baby supplies. Be sure the types you get are difficult for a small child to remove
from the outlet and big enough that the child can’t choke on them.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are another must have item, and required by law in many cities. Replace the batteries in such units yearly, even if they are still working. Place a sticker showing the battery replacement date on the unit and mark the date on your calendar.
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