Q: [Babies & Toddlers] As new parents, we want to make sure our home is safe for our baby. What would you say are three things we should address in our home to get started?
A: First off let me say you are not alone! We all want to protect our babies and oftentimes can feel very overwhelmed looking at our home and all the dangers we can see. Boo Boo Busters recommends to start your baby proofing before your baby starts crawling, that way once they’re on the move, you have protection in place. Below are a few tips that will hopefully help you get started.
Unintentional injuries are the No. 1 leading cause of death in children each year, states the CDC. This is important to know, as we want to prevent unintentional injuries and lower this statistic! These are injuries that potentially could have been prevented.
There are many hidden dangers in and around our homes. As a good starting point, Boo Boo Busters wants you to consider these three hazards. Please be aware and child proof immediately.
1. Choking hazard: Anything that can pass through a cardboard toilet paper roll holder unobstructed can be considered a choking hazard.
*Think about what’s inside cabinets, home decor, batteries (remotes), small toys. Get on the floor, crawl around and see what your child could potentially get to, and move it out of reach.
2. Strangulation hazards: Anything that can be made into a loop, places round the neck and is affixed at one end, could be a strangulation hazard.
*Think about power cords, cell chargers, TV/lamp cords, blinds cords. Boo Boo Busters recommends keeping all cords short and tight. This can easily be done with a few zip ties.
3. Fall hazards: Stairs, windows and railings can potentially be fall hazards.
*Think about railings that are climbable or a child could fit through, windows that are low and accessible to a child, and any stairs — even one step. Boo Boo Busters recommends gates on stairs, window protection and plexi on railings.
Natalia Bergman is a child safety expert with Boo Boo Busters Inc. She takes great pride in educating families on child safety in and around the home. Please check out Boo Boo Busters at booboobusters.com for more information.
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