Safety First: Kid-Proofing Your Home

By Fran Campbell - September 26, 2017

Ask any parent or grandparent; children provide an endless source of joy in the household. Children have a uniquely positive view of the world, and their enthusiasm can be infectious. Underneath all the joys of raising children, however, comes a great deal of responsibility. Fran Campbell Team wants to remind you that it is absolutely crucial to ensure that your home provides a safe environment for the next generation. If you're expecting children in your home soon, consider following these suggestions to childproof your home.

Electrical Outlets
At best, electric shocks are unpleasant - at worst, they're dangerous. Block electrical outlets in your home from inquisitive fingers with plugs, electrical tapes, or safety latches.

Heavy Objects and Furniture
Toddlers have a knack for unintentionally knocking things over. If possible, bolt heavy desks and dressers to the wall. Push televisions or other heavy objects farther back so they are out of reach of the youngsters. The last thing anybody wants is for a television or piece of furniture to fall on the little one!

Stairs and Cluttered Rooms
There's a reason baby gates are so popular. These gates can help prevent your child from stumbling up or down a flight of stairs. They can also keep children from entering a room with too many hazards to guard against, such as a workshop or sewing room.

Cords, Ties, and Curtains

These common household items pose a serious threat to children. It can take less than two minutes for toddlers' necks to become entangled in cords or curtains. Cordless window treatments are ideal, but looping the cords high enough in the blinds to be out of reach will also work.

Fire and Water
While you may be familiar with the timeless warning, "Don't play with matches," your toddler isn't. Keep matches, lighters, and other flammable materials out of reach of your toddler at all times. Also, try to limit the amount of unsupervised access your child has to water. Bathtubs are the main concern, but even toilets and buckets can prove dangerous under the right conditions.

Baby's-Eye View
The best and easiest way to identify possible dangers for your child is to see your home through their eyes. Get down on your hands and knees and evaluate your home from their perspective. What's within reach? What looks like it might entice curious youngsters? This perspective will help you identify what dangers need to be removed or blocked.

Following these suggestions will help you create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for your little ones. If you're looking for a new home to raise your children in, ask us about buying a home at the Lake of the Ozarks. We can help! Why not start today? Fran Campbell Team can answer all your questions about owning a home at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we can help you find your dream home at the Lake!

Contact the Fran Campbell Team to get your home SOLD!