Babies and toddlers seem to get many bumps and bruises, even when you keep an eye on them at all times! 

So, what else can you do to keep your house safer for your child?

1. Water - Make sure your child cannot get into the bathroom or pool without you. Never leave your child unattended in a bath. Use knob covers to help keep your child from turning them and getting into places without your knowledge.

2. Heat -  Keep your child away from cooking flames or hot items, like tea or coffee (make sure they can’t knock your mug over!), to prevent burns. 

3. Toxic Substances - Safety latches and locks for cabinets containing these (often cleaning products and medicines) can help prevent poisonings. Note, some plants can be toxic as well.

4. Fall Risks - Use anchors to prevent tipping furniture (bookshelves or TVs). Make sure your child cannot open windows or reach the stairs if they are too young to be able to safely go up and down them. You can also use corner bumpers to reduce injury. 

5. Choking Hazards - have a safe sleeping environment, keep foods that pose a choking risk like grapes or hot-dogs away, and do not keep BUTTON BATTERIES within reach of children. Use cordless blinds to decrease risk of strangulation.

6. Keep your doctor’s number and poison control (1-800-222-1222) saved on your phone. 

7. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide debtors work. 

8. Keep guns out of reach.

9. Have a fire and disaster plan. 

10. Learn first aid and CPR and the Heimlich maneuver if possible. 

    
    

The single most important thing in keeping your child safe is  supervision!

As a parent, it is normal to be constantly worried, as you can only protect them from so much. A few bumps and scrapes here and there are hallmarks of growing up. Remember to enjoy this time  with them, too. They grow up so fast.