Little ones are famous for melting hearts, sticky hands and faces, and getting into spaces and places they just shouldn’t be. In an effort to arm parents and caregivers with a heightened awareness, the team in Pediatrics put together this collection of common offenders and life-saving tips for avoiding potential household and environmental hazards.
6 places for fall prevention in the home
Furniture/child care products
- Don’t leave your baby alone on a bed, changing table or sofa.
- Always strap your child into the seat of the highchair or stroller.
- When your child can sit or stand without assistance, lock the crib mattress into a low position that is appropriate for his/her height.
- Never use a baby walker on wheels.
- Pad corners and sharp edges on furniture, especially coffee tables.
Windows
- Move beds, chairs and other furniture away from windows that can be opened.
- Do not rely on window or door screens to protect your child.
- Never open a window more than 4 inches.
- Some windows can be opened at the top and bottom. If this feature is available, open at the top only.
- Use window guards — an extra barrier on the bottom of the window — when possible.
Stairs
- Place safety gates at the top and bottom of each staircase to protect children younger than age 2.
- Keep stairs clear of clothes, toys, etc.
Slippery Surfaces
- Beware: falls occur most often in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Immediately mop liquids off the floor.
- Use a rubber mat in the bathtub.
- Use throw rugs with nonskid backings.
Shopping Carts
- Always strap your child into the seat. Do not use a cart without a safety strap.
- Do not allow your child to ride in the basket of the cart where groceries are kept.
- Do not allow your child to stand in the cart.
- Do not leave your child alone or move more than an arm’s length from the cart.
High Places
- Never leave a child alone on a balcony, fire escape or high porch.
- Watch children closely while on bleachers.
