The Canadian Mother's Resource | Information guide for expecting and new mothers and families in Canada

Safety

One of a parent’s biggest concerns is for their child’s safety. Many worry about such things as tragedy, abduction, and violence. However one of the more common yet overlooked threats is right in your own home.

You really need to get down on your hands and knees and look at things from their point of view to see what they see, and try to anticipate what they may or may not do.

Some things to keep in mind:

First Aid Kit: Keep first-aid supplies on hand. Make sure babysitters and other caregivers know where to find these supplies in your home and how to respond in an emergency.

Safety gates: If you have stairs, you'll want to invest in safety gates for the top and bottom. Those hinged like a gate are the easiest to use. You can also use gates to block off other areas of your house that might be hazardous.

Car seat: The law requires that your child sit in a car seat while riding in any car.

Plastic outlet protectors: Exposed outlets are an almost irresistible attraction to curious explorers. Keep them covered.

Toilet seat locks: You'll want to keep your baby and toys out of the toilet with a toilet lock. These latch on top of a closed seat, and require you to press a button to open them.

Cupboard and drawer latches: Choose from several types; the most common is a latch you have to push to get the door open. Lock up all knives and cleaning supplies, and every other hazard you can imagine in your kitchen and bathroom.

Plastic bathtub: Using a tub specially designed to hold a wriggling baby will keep yours safe and give your back a break as well.

Gadgets: You'll find all kinds of gadgets for sale that really can help your home childproofing efforts. Or, if you can afford it, you can hire a childproofing expert to choose and install safety devices for you. Remember, though, that gadgets are no substitute for your eyes and ears.

Prevent drowning: Get rid of standing water or other liquids in containers. Children left unattended even for just a minute can drown in as little as an inch of liquid. This seemingly unlikely scenario happens because young children are top-heavy. If they lose their balance while peering into a toilet or bucket, they typically fall in headfirst and can't get out.

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