Preventable injuries in and around the home are the most common cause of death in children ages 1-14 years. While it may be impossible to eliminate all risks in the home, you can take steps to reduce them. Here are a few ideas. To see a complete list and take a virtual tour, please check our website at www.CharliesHouse.org.
- Learn more about household poisons by always checking product labels.
- Secure dressers (even short ones), televisions, bookcases and other tip-prone furniture to the wall with furniture straps.
- Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
- Keep a list of emergency numbers near the phone.
- Use plug covers or caps in all electrical outlets.
- Shorten cords on appliances that could be pulled down.
- Lock or latch cabinets that children should not get into.
- Use doorknob covers.
- Test smoke alarms and change batteries every six months.
- Set hot water heater to below 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Move baby’s crib away from any windows.
- Install window blind cord wind-ups.
- Apply stove and burner covers.
- Use back burners first when cooking.
- Purchase a fire extinguisher and store in the kitchen.
- Place knives and matches out of children’s reach.
- If you have a gun in your home, make sure that it is stored unloaded and locked with ammunition stored and locked separately.