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. Choking & Suffocation Hazards.
Dry cleaning bags that can suffocate a wandering toddler are often left on clothes in the closet. Plastic bags lining trash cans and the content of the trash cans pose choking hazards.
9. Non-slip Carpet Grips.
All throw rugs should be provided with fresh carpet grips to prevent children and adults from slipping and falling. Baby sitters and grandparents are particularly vulnerable especially when carrying a child.
8. Fire Extinguishers.
All families should have at least one fire extinguisher permanently mounted on each level of the home.
7. Pool & Spa Barriers.
Pools, ponds, fountains and spas should be fenced and equipped with self-closing and locking gates. Child resistant hardware should be added to doors and windows which access the yard.
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 if the spacing between balusters is greater than four inches or if they are readily climbable.
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 adjacent to the sleeping areas.
3. Furniture Bracing.
Climbable pieces of furniture and those likely to topple in an earthquake, such as bookcases and dressers, should be securely 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 different from a prioritized list of the most important safety issues in the home.