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The ABC's of Baby Safety Every year, more children under the age of five die from unintentional injury than all other causes combined. Accidents are also the leading cause of permanent or temporary disability in those over the age of one year. In the United States, 12 to 14 million children (one in four children under the age of 15) require medical attention due to accidental injury. The majority of these accidents occur in and around the home. Most, however, can be prevented. And, by following the "ABC's of Baby Proofing" you can help make your home safer for your toddlers.
Baby proofing your home is an important step to take in helping keep your child safe but you shouldn't be lulled into a false sense of security. These items will merely slow down an inquisitive toddler not completely deter them. While parents can have a little more peace of mind, you should still keep your child in sight at all times. Used
by permission
Copyright Peek-a-Boo BabyProofing, Inc. 2006 |
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Awareness
is the most critical element. Babies begin rolling over,
crawling and walking when you least expect it. While
your child might not be able to roll off the changing
table today, by tomorrow she could. Recognize that every
child is different and be aware of your child's "vulnerabilities."
Some children are natural climbers so securing heavy
furniture to the walls might be the top priority. Other
children are more interested in ingesting anything they
can get their hands on. For them, cabinet and drawer
locks for the kitchen and bathrooms would be more important.
Barriers
are necessary to ensure your baby's safety. Whether
it's installing gates on stairs or locks on cabinets,
it's important that safeguards be put in place. Don't
forget the existing barriers in your home. Home offices,
exercise rooms and laundry rooms are no place for children.
By installing automatic door closers and bolts at the
top of the doors you can keep these areas off limits.
Locks and alarms should also be placed on patio doors.
Little ones can very quickly learn how to open a slider
door.
Controlling
your child's environment will allow them the freedom
to explore while at the same time protecting them from
hazards. We call them "safe zones." These
are areas that have been secured and where your child
is always within your view. We occasionally hear objections,
especially from first time parents, that they want their
child to be able to have the run of the house. This
is risky as there are too many opportunities for your
child to be out of your sight. Safe zones can be large
enough to give your child ample room to explore and
play while in a secure area.