The number of children injured or killed by hazards in their homes is about two and a half million! This number can be decreased significantly with the safety devices that are available today. They are simple, easy to use and very effective when installed correctly. You must also make sure that, if you have older children, they do not uninstall the safety devices. Safety latches and locks: In order to prevent your child accessing dangerous substances or objects, you must install these on cabinets and drawers. Remember nothing is 100% safe but they will certainly make it more difficult for your child to reach dangerous substances. Safety gates: You can use these to keep your child away from a particular room or dangerous areas such as stairs. Door knob covers and door locks: Again you can keep your child away from a particular room. Make sure they can be easily opened by an adult in case of emergency. And do not forget to re-secure after use. Anti-scald devices: You can use these on faucets and showerheads to regulate the water temperature. In this way you can prevent burns. You may need the help of a plumber to install these and you can set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Smoke detectors: You absolutely must have these safety devices to prevent death or injury because of fire. Make sure they work by checking once a month and also remember to change the batteries at least once a year. Window guards and safety netting: Once you install them on your windows and balconies, you must check them frequently to make sure they work properly. Also make sure there are not more than four inches between the bars and at least one window in each room can be used in case of emergencies. Corner and edge bumpers: These are used to help prevent injuries from falls by softening the sharp edges or furniture. Outlet covers and outlet plates: To prevent electrocution you must use outlet protectors which cannot be removed by your child easily. Also make sure that they are large enough four your child not to choke on them. Carbon monoxide detectors: They must be installed near sleeping areas specially in households with gas/oil heating systems and with attached garages. Window blind cord safety tassels: To prevent strangulation in the loops of cords, these must be used on miniblinds and tension devices on vertical blinds and drapery cords. Door stops and door holders: They are useful even for adults to prevent fingers being pinched or crushed in doors and door hinges. Cordless phones: You can easily answer the phone and keep watching your child at the same time. They are extremely important when your child is in the bathtub or swimming pool. Even if you take these precautions, it does not mean that your child is 100% safe and you can leave him unwatched. They are only some devices that will help you keep your child safe. |
