As parents, nothing is more important than making sure our babies are safe. We take the time to childproof our home, so that it’s as safe as it can be for our new baby, but accidents happen. Many of those accidents can be prevented. That is why it’s important to raise awareness about National Baby Safety Month and share tips throughout the month that will help keep your child safe.
Did you know that falls are the most common cause of non-fatal accidents in children from 0 to the age of 15, followed by being struck by an object or animal/insect bites for children aged 0-9? Suffocation is the most common cause of fatal accidents in children less than a year old while drowning is the leading cause in children from the ages of 1 to 4.
These are things that we simply overlook as new parents and as seasoned parents, we sometimes take it for granted that we are already aware. Accidents can happen quickly and at times, with items around the home that we aren’t even thinking about!
As our little ones continues to grow and becomes more curious, they must explore their surroundings, which is why we want to share some overlooked causes of accidents in the home.
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Cords
Whether they are connected to blinds or gym equipment, cords can be a hazard for children. Be sure to have them tied up, out of reach and away from the baby’s’ crib. -
Recalled Products
Make sure there are no recalls on any of the products that your baby may use or be able to touch. You can find the most recent recalls at Recalls.gov -
Loose Change
Most people can find change lying around their home. You may set your loose change on the coffee table, or it can fall out of your pocket into the cushions on the couch or floor. It’s easy for a baby to pick up and choke on. -
Loose Rugs
Make sure that all rugs are secure to the ground. As your little one begins to walk, they are already unsteady on their feet. Unsecured rugs can easily bring about some bumps from falls for your child. -
Batteries
Never leave batteries sitting out. Store spare batteries, and batteries to be recycled, out of sight and reach of your little one. Swallowed batteries can burn through a child’s esophagus in just 2 hours, leading to surgery, months with feeding and breathing tubes, or worse. -
Hot Coffee or Tea
A simple cup of hot coffee or tea can turn into an emergency quickly if it’s within the reach of your child. Rates for burns are at the highest for children 4 and under. -
Dangerous Chemicals
Children are curious and want to put everything into their mouths and unless you are planning to go 100% organic, it’s nearly impossible to not have some chemicals in the home. Detergent pods have been the cause of accidents for thousands of children each year. They are colorful and resemble candy, so be sure all of these items are in a place where your child can’t access them. -
Electrical Outlets
Outlets are right at a child’s eye level and of course, they are curious about them. Many stores sell outlet covers to prevent your child from inserting their finger or an object in the outlet and getting shocked. -
Doors and Furniture
Toddlers can get their fingers trapped in the door and furniture can collapse if not completely secure. Make sure that doors are closed and all furniture is secure to the wall. Many furniture companies now provide you with the tools needed to keep them secure. -
Pets
We love our pets and they become part of our families, but pets are still animals and can quickly change moods. If your child pets or pulls on the family pet and startles them, it may put your child in a risky situation.
As you can see, many hazards can easily be overlooked in our home. As you are childproofing, get down to the child’s eye level and look around the room. From this perspective, you’re able to see more hazards from their viewpoint. Having a child is an exciting time and there’s nothing wrong with taking a few extra precautions.
