While moving to a new home can be exiting, there can also be some stressful moments involved – at least until you are all settled in. This could especially be the case if you have small children and you want to ensure that your new home is safe for toddlers, that you have made provisions for their safety in your new abode.
Toddlers seem to be on the go at all times – which can make them a high risk for injury if left unattended. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to “toddler-proof” any and all areas of your new home in order to help reduce the chances of an accident.
General
First, be sure to place safety plugs and / or outlet covers over any unused electrical outlets. This can help in preventing electrical shock to your toddler. An alternative to this would be to place large items of furniture in front of outlet covers. Likewise, be sure to hide electrical cords behind furniture or other large items.
Using window guards and safety netting around windows, decks, and / or landings can be helpful just in case of falls. And, if you have a fireplace, be sure to also install a screen or other protective covering here.
Placing a lock on exterior doors that are well above your toddler’s reach can also be a good idea, as many small children are able to open doors – even those that contain deadbolts.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, all breakable items, as well as sharp objects such as knives, should be stored either out of reach, or in an area that can be locked. The refrigerator should also contain an appliance latch in order to prevent your toddler from opening it.
Bathrooms
In the bathrooms, it is always a good idea to have non-slip mats both in, and next to, the tub. This can help to prevent falls while your child is bathing, as well as when they are getting in and out of the tub. Placing soft covers on both bathtub knobs and on the bathtub spout can also help to prevent injury in case of a fall. A toilet seat lock can also be a wise idea.
In addition, while not located directly in the bathroom, it can also be wise to turn down your water heater to a temperature of below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be helpful in preventing scalds in case your toddler is able to turn on the water him or herself.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your new home toddler-safe can provide peace of mind for the whole family. And, it can make your moving experience much more enjoyable, knowing that everything is put in place right away.
Are you still seeking that perfect home? Give us a call. We can help you on your search – and we will also provide you with a free, no obligation analysis of your current property.
