Safe tips for protecting children from home accidents

Some family members are more at risk than others when it comes to falls and shocks. Children, either your own or visiting youngsters, often get into dangerous situations. Minimize the danger with these tips and learn some easy ways to help protect them.

Start by having a designated storage area where tempting, dangerous objects can be kept under lock and key.

• The following measures may be too drastic if your home is visited only infrequently by a child but are recommended if you have children or grandchildren around regularly.
• No matter how safe your home environment may seem, remember that there is no substitute for adequate adult supervision.

Check furniture placement to be sure everything is secure.

• The TV is a particular hazard when it is heavy and tippy, especially on a high shelf. Secure large wall mirrors and artwork.
• Some recliners can cause serious injuries by closing on a child's fingers, arm or head. Choose a recliner model that doesn't snap shut hard, and keep children away from its scissors-like mechanisms when operating.
• Likewise, remove any chest or trunk that has a heavy, hinged lid, or fasten it closed.

Keep small decorative items out of reach.

• They can present a choking danger. Put sharp objects away, too.

Secure electrical cords, especially in traffic zones.

• Insert plastic safety caps into all open electrical receptacles.
• Teach children to stay away from electrical cords and outlets.

• Safety rails: Install screens and safety rails by fireplaces and on radiators to prevent burns. Keep kids away from wood stoves and space heaters, or avoid using them while small children are present.
• Protectors: Use protectors to cover sharp corners on tables and other furniture that children might bump into.

Keep toddler's toys on reachable shelves, or else out of sight.

• Make sure a toy chest has a safety lid.
• Teach kids not to climb inside furnishings.

A baby's crib should meet safety regulations.

• Slats should be no more than five centimetres (two inches) apart so a newborn's head can't get wedged between, and the mattress should fit snugly.
• Stop using a crib when the child can climb over its rails.

Secure drapery cords out of the reach of children.

• Don't place a crib or young child's bed within reach of these or within reach of electrical cords, outlets, lamps, wall mirrors or pictures.

Falls are a leading cause of injuries in children. Don't allow kids unsupervised access to balconies, porches or windows.

• Pull climbable furniture (including beds) away from windows.

Children can be clumsy and accidents may happen, but you can minimize the risk. Follow these tips and create a safe environment for your children to explore in.