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A Child-Friendly Home
 


Young children are usually not aware of the dangers they may encounter in the home environment. Because of their limited knowledge, many hazards that are apparent to adults are not necessarily perceived as such by children.

Parents therefore need to identify the possible dangers at home and make the necessary adjustments to prevent their children from getting injured. This can be as simple as placing common household items at the appropriate places.

The following are some suggestions on how to make your home a safer place for the young ones.
child safety
  • Keep furniture such as tables and chairs away from windows. Children’s beds should also be placed away from windows.

  • It is important to fix grills on all windows and ensure that they are locked to prevent children from opening them.

  • In some households, hazardous substances like weed killers, fertilizers, bleach and insecticides are placed at low levels within easy reach of toddlers. Instead they should be kept locked in cabinets or out of the reach of children.

  • Store flammable materials such as gasoline and kerosene in appropriate containers and place matches and lighters on high shelves out of the reach of youngsters.

  • Lock power tools and sharp objects like knives and scissors away in a cabinet.

  • A child may think that medicinal pills left on the table are sweets and decide to eat some. Keep all medication out of the reach of small children.

  • Avoid leaving small objects such as coins and hair clips on low tables and shelves as young children can easily choke on them.

  • Children can fall from places which appear to be safe for them if precautions are not taken. Do not leave babies alone on beds without the railings up, on changing tables or sofas. Always strap children when they are in highchairs or strollers.

  • It is unsafe for a child whose sense of balance is not fully developed to go up or down the stairs on his own. Keep staircases clear and use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs if there are infants and toddlers in the home.

  • Never leave a small child unattended in the bathroom. Children can sustain scalds from hot bath water or drown in shallow water in the bathtub or a pail. Use a rubber mat to prevent slips.
child safety



Small children need to be supervised to prevent them from getting hurt. As they grow older, education is also important. Parents can teach their children the basics of safety and set rules for them to keep away from hazardous items and play away from danger spots such as windows and staircases.

   
   
   
 
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