6 Home Safety Tips for New Parents

You're a careful parent who steers children away from things that could harm them. But hidden threats lurk in every house—sometimes where you least expect them. For safety's sake, look through your home often and help keep your children safe by following these six precautions.

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1. Cover sharp edges on furniture, especially tables that are at the height of toddlers. Bolt lightweight furniture, bookcases and televisions to the walls, so they can't tip over onto children if pulled on. Use outlet plugs to prevent children from putting their fingers or toys in the outlets.
2. Use safety latches, gates, door knob covers and door locks to help keep children from entering rooms and other areas where they may be at risk for injury. Gates that are used at the top of stairs should be secured to the wall using screws.
3. Store harmful chemicals in their original, labeled containers—safely out of reach. Consider locked cabinets for storage. Never leave chemicals unattended when you are using them.
4. Install cordless window coverings. Window blinds with loose cords or chains can lead to strangulation.
5. Make sure your home has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. There should be at least one on each level and outside each bedroom. Check them monthly to be sure they still work.
6. If you have an outdoor pool or spa, make certain there is a barrier surrounding it that includes a four-foot-high fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Lock the gate when the pool is not in use. If your house serves as one side of the barrier, doors leading to the pool should have alarms. Pool alarms provide extra security. Sliding glass doors, even with locks that must be secured after each use, are not an effective barrier.

Always be prepared in the case of an emergency. Sign up today for one of our virtual or in-person Infant Safety & CPR classes designed for expectant and new parents, grandparents and family members to learn infant CPR, safety and injury prevention.