From our experience, most new parents are aware of the hazards associated with falls and electrical shock and poisoning. As such they know they need things like gates, latches and outlet covers. However, consistently we walk through customers’ homes and find very similar issues that they have overlooked. Here is a list of the Top Ten things that new parents will often overlook.
10. Edge Protection. Sharp edges from tables and fireplace hearths should be cushioned to prevent infants and toddlers from serious injury.
9. Non-slip Carpet Grips. All throw rugs should be provided with fresh carpet grips to prevent children and adults from slipping and falling.
8. Fire Extinguishers. All families should have at least one fire extinguisher permanently mounted on each level of your home as well as in the kitchen and garage.
7. Pool & Spa Barriers. Pool and water features should be fenced and equipped with self-closing and locking gates. Spas need to be enclosed or secured with locked covers.
6. Inaccessible Cords. Dangling cords from window coverings and electrical devices should be made inaccessible to prevent strangulation, electrical shock and objects falling from above.
5. Balcony Protection. Both interior and exterior balcony railings require additional protection it the spacing between balusters is greater than four inches.
4. Carbon Monoxide Monitors. Carbon Monoxide can be emitted from any combustion source including fire places and gas fires appliances. Monitors should be located on each level of your home.
3. Furniture Bracing. Climbable pieces of furniture and those likely to topple in an earthquake, such as bookcases and dressers, should be braced to the wall.
2. Window Latches. Windows on upper stories or those providing access to pools or water features should be equipped with ventilation latches preventing them from opening more than four inches.
1. Smoke Detectors. Smoke detectors should be provided in each bedroom, in the adjacent hallway and on each level of your home.
Again, this is a list of the issues parents most often overlook, which is somewhat different from a prioritized list of the most important safety issues in the home.