Safety in the living areas

Living areas such as lounge rooms with fireplaces and areas with open stairways should be supervised and protected for baby's safety.

• If you have an open fire, always keep a spark guard in front of it as well as a safety guard that is fastened to the wall.

• Run flexes around the walls.

• Disconnect appliances when not in use.

• Keep flexes on electrical appliances short.

• Don't place a hot or heavy object on a low table where your child could reach it.

• All shelving should be securely fixed to the wall and should be well out of the reach of your child.

• Make sure your houseplants aren't poisonous.

• Keep the television out of reach.

• Anything breakable should be out of the reach of your child.

• Fit toughened safety glass to windows that are near the floor, especially patio windows, so that it won't shatter even if your child falls on to it. In addition put stickers on the glass so it can be seen.

• Never leave hot or alcoholic drinks lying around within reach of your child.

• Don't leave lighters or matches lying about; lock them away.

Halls, stairs and passageways

• Fit a safety gate across the bottom of the stairs; don't put one across the top as they are a trip hazard.

• Electric light switches should be in convenient places.

• Banisters should be secure; check them regularly and repair any loose ones.

• Never leave anything lying on or near the stairs. Make sure that doors, hallways and stairs are well lit.

• Don't have open-plan staircases - your child could easily fall between the stairs or off to one side.

• The gaps between the banisters should be no more than 6.5cm (2 ½ in) apart so children can't climb through them.

• Stair carpets should be fitted well so that they don't slip. Any tears or holes should be patched immediately.

• Put safety locks and a chain on your front door; make sure the lock is well out of your child's reach.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 30.06.2010

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