You want to keep your little one safe, but where do you even start? This handy guide will help you quickly and easily baby-proof your home.
-Use approved, secure baby gates at the top and bottom of stairs—and keep them closed. -Install outlet covers that are permanently attached to the outlet and have an automatic shield closure, so that it’s foolproof for overtired, forgetful parents. -Tuck electrical cords under furniture. Out of sight, out of mind. -Keep accessible drawers locked with baby-proofing devices. -Store the stepstool away from the counter, and keep the dining room chairs tucked under the table. -Clear counters and tabletop of dangerous items like knives and scissors—just in case. -Secure furniture to the wall, including bookcases and chests of drawers. -Mount your television on a wall, or secure it to a wall or sturdy cabinet with a television anchor. -Don’t rely on childproof bottles—keep all meds in a cabinet or container out of reach. -Teach your baby about boundaries—places where you don’t want him to go. A baby won’t completely understand this concept, but if you always say no and move him away from the bookcase he’s trying to shinny up, he’ll eventually catch on.
A version of this article appeared in our April 2015 issue with the headline, “Your top 10 most googled parenting questions,” p.67
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