by Virginia L. Allen

Created on: February 19, 2009

Ask any parent, and they'll tell you that having a baby changes everything. From your once carefree lifestyle, to how you view life in general; a significant change is undeniably felt.

In addition to this life changing experience, a parent is unwittingly thrust into the world of "baby proofing". Everything from your car, to your home, has to be "baby proofed". In actuality, your whole life has to be "baby proofed"!

Therefore, what are some ways you can "baby proof" your home? Thereby, ensuring the safety of your baby.

* Bookshelves- Let's face it, babies love to climb. Therefore, to prevent bookshelves, and other tall pieces of furniture from falling over and injuring your child, ensure that they are secured to the wall.

* Candy/Snacks- Never leave candy or snacks in your child's reach. They can become lodged in your child's throat.

* Chemicals- Store all chemicals; household/and otherwise; in a locked cabinet. Make sure all chemicals are stored in their original containers. While using household cleaners, never let them out of your sight, and always put them away after use. Never leave household cleaners accessible, even if you leave the room for only a second.

* Dangerous Household Appliances/Utensils- Keep all sharp and dangerous utensils such as knives, and forks, kept in a drawer equipped with a drawer latch. Appliances, and their electrical cords, should be stored on kitchen cabinets, far out of your child's reach. In addition, ensure that all matches, and plastic bags are placed in a hard to reach area.

* Hot Water- If able, adjust the thermostat on your hot water heater. The temperature on your hot water heater, should be no more than 120*F.

* Medicines/Vitamins- Always store nonprescription, prescription, and homeopathic medicines, out of your child's reach, preferably in a locked cabinet. This applies to vitamins as well (inform any overnight guest, to keep their medicines and vitamins secure also).

* Plastics- Babies put everything in their mouths. Therefore, always make sure all pieces of plastic are removed from your child's reach. This will reduce the risk of chocking or suffocation.

* Power Outlets/Electric Cords- Keep outlet covers on power outlets that are not in use. Never allow electrical cords to dangle. This will prevent your child from pulling an appliance down on top of themselves. Attach the electrical cords of table lamps, to the wall or to furniture. This will prevent your child from tripping.

* Stairs- Always install security gates (at least 30 inches high) to both ends of stairs.

* Stove- Equip your stove with a stove guard (prevents your child from toying with stove knobs), a tilt guard (prevents your child from tipping stove over, in the event he should climb on the open oven door), and a oven lock (prevents your child from opening the oven door). Always turn the handles of pots and pans inward while cooking.

* Toys- Always make sure all toys are age appropriate. Discard all toys that can pose as a choking hazard. Teach your older children to never leave their toys in baby's reach.

* Windows/Balcony Doors- To prevent falls and serious injuries, equip windows and balcony doors with safety catches, or chains that will prevent your child from squeezing through them (or opening them, once they get older).

With these safety precautions in hand, "baby proofing" your home should be both simple and effective. Thereby, ensuring the safety of your precious little one.(ref:"Awake!", "Caring for Your Baby and Young Child")

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