How2Day: Baby Proofing Devices

Proof that houses need baby proofing Jason Todd/Photodisc/Getty Images
Most babies learn to crawl sometime between the ages of six and ten months and it is wise to have your home baby proofed before that happens. Get down on your hands and knees to view your home from your baby's perspective so you can anticipate the new dangers he will face. There are baby proofing devices sold to suit almost every situation, to help make your house a safer place for your baby.

Babies are fascinated by electrical outlets. Secure any unused outlets with plastic outlet plugs to prevent them from accidentally inserting anything into the outlet. For outlets with devices plugged into them, purchase plug protectors that cover the outlet and the plug, preventing the baby from unplugging the devices and getting a shock.

Install baby gates at the top and bottom of all stairwells in areas of your home to which your baby has access. Screw the gates at the top of the stairs securely into place but uses more simple pressure gates at the bottom of stairwells and in level doorways.

Babies and toddlers love to open and close cupboards but many dangers lurk in your kitchen and bathroom for the curious child. Install latches or locks on all cabinets containing dangerous materials such as cleaning products, knives, medicine and breakable items.

A 2009 study by Nationwide Children's Hospital showed that up to 15,000 children are injured each year by furniture tipping over onto them. Secure all heavy furniture such as bookcases and televisions with brackets or safety straps attached to the wall to help keep your children safe.

Cords from curtains or blinds present a serious danger of strangulation. Shorten and secure all cords out of your baby's reach using clips or clothespins. Consider installing cordless blinds or curtains in areas where a baby is likely to be playing.

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