Tips for Baby Proofing your Home

All mothers look forward to their baby's’ first steps with a lot of emotion and this usually happens between the 9th and 12th month but before then, there is a lot of crawling. This usually starts from the 8th month, you will, therefore, want to start the process of baby-proofing your house before then. 

The more curious and energetic ones seem to be able to roam all around the house, upsetting chairs, spilling liquids and in some cases could even hurt themselves if no adult is around to watch them. 

According to statistics, unintentional injury ranks as one of the top reasons for infant mortality in the US. This is why baby proofing your house is a must; here are a few tips from our friends at Midatlantic Obgyn in Fairfax County, Virginia to help you get started.

1. First, you need to get down on all fours, the goal of this is to be able to see the house through your baby’s eyes. This position will bring you on almost the same level with your baby as you crawl through the house spotting any potential safety hazards such as toxic chemicals, choking hazards and electrical outlets.

2. To avoid electrocution, be sure to unplug all electrical appliances such as flat irons, electric irons etc as soon as you are done with them; it is common knowledge that electrical appliances and water don’t always lead to happy endings. Some of these appliances may still be hot from use so remember to put them away safely. While we are on the subject of electricity, take a quick trip to an appliance store and get yourself a bunch of outlet protectors for your outlets, especially those within easy reach of your baby.

3. Lock away all utensils or tools with sharp edges such as knives, forks, screwdrivers, sewing needles and pins in protective containers or hard-to-reach drawers and cupboards. You also do not want to keep spears, gardening shears and prongs anywhere within easy reach.

4. Pills are very easy to pick up and swallow as well, so ensure all medicines are stored in their original containers and placed inside the medicine cabinet or in a first aid box with locks.

5. If you live somewhere with stairs, look into installing safety gates; they will prevent your baby from toppling down the stairs. Safety gates should be installed both at the top and the bottom of the stairs, they also help to keep your babies from places you don’t want them getting into like the kitchen or a crafts room.

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