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Childproofing Checklist: General Principles
Here are some general suggestions and ideas that can be used throughout your home. Since children grow and develop new skills quickly, it is important to conduct a "full-house survey" every 6 months. Every home is different, and no checklist is complete and appropriate for every child and every household.
- Are stairs carpeted and protected with non-accordion gates?
- Are the rooms in your house free from small parts, plastic bags, small toys, and balloons that could pose a choking hazard?
- Do you have a plan of escape from your home in the event of a fire? Have you reviewed and practiced the plan with your family?
- Does the door to the basement have a self-latching lock to prevent your child from falling down the stairs?
- Do not place your child in a baby walker with wheels. They are very dangerous, especially near stairs.
- Are dangerous products stored out of reach (in cabinets with safety latches or locks or on high shelves) and in their original containers in the utility room, basement, and garage?
- If your child has a playpen, does it have small-mesh sides (less than 3/4 inch mesh) or closely spaced vertical slats (less than 2 3/8 inches)?
- Are the numbers of the Poison Control Center and your pediatrician posted on all phones?
- Do your children know how to call 911 in an emergency?
- Inspect your child's toys for sharp or detachable parts. Repair or throw away broken toys.
(c) Copyright 2000 American Academy of Pediatrics
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