Creating a safe environment for children starts with knowing potential household hazards—many of which aren’t immediately obvious. I’ve put together a list of the most common dangers and practical steps you can take to prevent accidents.
❗Open Windows & Balconies
- Install window and balcony door locks to prevent them from opening.
- Avoid placing furniture near windows to prevent children from climbing.
- Never leave a balcony door open when a child is in the room.
- Be cautious with mosquito screens—they create a false sense of security but won’t prevent falls. Always use proper safety locks instead.
❗Furniture & Heavy Objects (Dressers, TVs)
Dressers can tip over if overloaded or if a child tries to climb them.
- Secure heavy furniture and TVs to the wall with reliable anchors to prevent tipping.
❗Small Objects (Toys, Coins, Batteries)
- Keep small objects out of children’s reach.
- Use childproof locks on drawers and cabinets.
- Regularly check toys for small detachable parts.
❗Medications & Household Chemicals
- Store all medicines and cleaning products in locked cabinets out of reach.
- If high storage isn’t available, use childproof locks on cabinets.
❗Sharp Objects (Knives, Scissors)
- Store sharp objects in locked drawers or out of reach.
❗Sharp Furniture Corners
- Use protective silicone covers on sharp furniture edges to prevent injuries.
❗Small Household Appliances (Irons, Hair Dryers)
- Always unplug small appliances after use and store them safely.
- Teach children that these items can be dangerous and should never be touched without adult supervision.
❗Window Blind Cords
- Shorten blind cords or use safety clips to keep them out of reach.
- Install hooks at a child-inaccessible height to gather and secure cords.
❗Water Hazards (Bathtubs, Buckets, Toilets)
- Never leave standing water unattended; always empty bathtubs and buckets after use.
- Install toilet lid locks.
- Use non-slip bath mats to prevent falls.
❗Electrical Outlets
- Install safety covers on all accessible outlets.
❗Choking Hazards (Large Food Pieces, Hard Foods)
- Cut food into small pieces to reduce the risk of choking.
- Always supervise children while eating and teach them to chew properly.
- Keep hard foods out of reach.
💡 Bonus Tip: Watch a video on what to do if a child is choking.
❗Plastic Bags
- Keep all plastic bags out of children’s reach.
- Use childproof locks on drawers and cabinets where bags are stored.
❗Small Round Magnets
- Avoid toys with small round magnets—if swallowed, they can cause severe internal injuries.
❗Slippery Floors
- Use rugs or mats to prevent slipping—especially important when babies start crawling and learning to walk.
❗Hot Surfaces (Stovetops, Ovens)
- Install safety guards around stovetops to prevent access to hot surfaces.
- Use stove knob covers to prevent accidental ignition.
- Cook on the back burners and turn pot handles inward to keep them out of reach.
- Teach children that the stove is not a toy and should never be touched without an adult.
- If your oven is low and accessible, use childproof locks.
By taking these precautions, you can create a safer home environment and give your child the freedom to explore and grow with peace of mind.
