Friday, March 16, 2012

Baby Proofing - Learning the Basics

By Jocelyn Kinder


When it comes to new parents, one of the first things that goes through their head is the need for safety. Baby proofing your home is a major concern - and rightfully so. You can prevent many accidents that happen in the home with the help of a few safety precautions.

Before you spend a penny on baby proofing accessories, take an inventory throughout your home to look for trouble spots. Some examples of baby dangers are chemicals, open toilets, bathtub faucets, sharp edges on tables and other furniture, staircases, unprotected electrical outlets, heavy furniture such as bookcases and entertainment centers that could fall on baby, window blind cords, electrical appliances, sharp utensils, doors that lock on the inside, and choking hazards.

As you're going through your home making a baby-proofing inventory, make sure that you don't stay on your feet. Don't forget to get on your hands and knees and get a baby's eye level view of your home.

When you look at the above list, you may begin to feel overwhelmed - but don't panic! Baby proofing doesn't have to be done all in one day - especially if you start early in your pregnancy and baby's life.

You should begin thinking about baby proofing as soon as you decide to become a parent. But even after the baby is born, you have only little time to get the job done. You'll get the chance to complete the baby proofing of your home because at first, your baby won't be able to move around the house at will. But you should have baby proofing completed before your baby starts to crawling.

Many parents work hard at baby proofing their home, but don't take care of the hidden choking hazards that are lurking. If the object can fit through the hole of a toilet paper roll, then it's considered a choking hazard.

Objects that can easily slide through can be easily picked and put in the mouth. Be thorough in your baby proofing and try not to overlook common objects that could be dangerous.

Once you know what areas of your home need baby proofing, you can make some simple modifications to improve safety. Socket covers, childproof latches, and picking up dangerous objects can not only keep your baby safe, it will also improve your peace of mind.




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