Beginning with the most obvious dangers you must place all insect repellents, cleansers, paint or pain solvents, and medicines far from the access of any child. A high shelf in a utility room or corner of the garage is a good idea. Medicines can be kept in a container on top of the refrigerator or in a high kitchen cabinet. As long as these types of danger are not where curious eyes and hands will wander it’s a great place. Each home will have its unique set of places for things and also things for which to find a place. This is where the time is well spent planning and using common sense is invaluable.

There are many creative locks for cabinet doors and ways to secure toilet lids so that your children wont have access, just make certain YOU don’t have to be a rocket scientist to gain entry also. Corners of tables are particularly dangerous and glass tables add an extra element of danger. Not only can your child bang into a glass table there is the chance it could shatter. You can create your own bumper for table corners quite easily or you can purchase them for any size shape or style of table you have. Stairwells (up or down) can be cordoned off with a unique gadget that also fits any doorway. An adult can easily step over these types of safeguarding devices, but children can’t.

Depending on your child’s age, your concerns may vary. Some dangers are there no matter what age, water is a big danger for children. Pools, toilets, and even buckets of water are all potential hazards. Teaching a child to swim as early as possible is a great idea, but you must always have a secure fence and gate between living areas and yard space where children play and your pool. Suffocation from bags or wrappers is another danger of which to be aware. Electrical outlets need to be covered. Lamp cords need to be tucked in and away from toddlers. Tables need to be cleared of any objects that pose a potential danger. And any window dressing that has cords or strings hanging need to be placed on a hook behind the curtain or just removed. They say home is where the heart is but as new parents we find it’s a frightening place full of potential danger. The best way to be assured your home has been child-proofed thoroughly is by taking time to consider all the possibilities, using common sense and NEVER thinking you have gone overboard where safety for your child is concerned.