Baby proofing your home can seem like a daunting task, but with children under 1 at the highest risk for unintentional home injury death, it is essential. In addition to securing cabinet doors and stocking up on baby gates and outlet covers, there are a few other precautions to take to ensure your home is safe for baby.

• Stove knobs can be a magnet for small hands. Reminiscent of toys, young children have a difficult time resisting the chance to turn them. Keep the flames at bay by using knob covers for the stove and use a latch to keep the oven door from turning into a jungle gym.
• Baby proofing doesn’t have to break the bank. Simply attach two removable sticky hooks on the top of the refrigerator and secure together with an elastic band. This will keep little hands out of the fridge without creating a permanent safeguard.
• Install latches on kitchen and bathroom cabinets to help ensure that chemicals, cleaners and other products stay out of reach. These easy to install safety latches can be put in place with the help of a screwdriver.
• Outlets are some of the biggest temptations for tiny fingers. Use outlet covers, caps or plugs to prevent against shock and other dangers.
• Toddlers are walking, talking accidents. Soften the edges of sharp furniture or hearths with removable corner cushions to prevent bruises, bumps and other injuries as toddlers are begin walk.
• Set your hot water heater no higher than 120 degrees to prevent burns. There are also a variety of thermometers you can place in the bathtub to make sure the water isn’t too hot.
• Install a toilet lock to guard against smashed fingers and keep other items out of the toilet.
• Move medicines and vitamins from lower drawers and cabinets to secure areas out of the reach of curious hands. While most bottles have a child safe top, they won’t always keep a persistent child out.
• After using small appliances, be sure to put them away, out of the reach of children. Curling irons or flat irons can become hazards if left on or the cords are within reach.
• Remove crib bumpers, blankets pillows and stuffed animals from the child’s crib. While these items make for lovely decorations, they put your child at risk for injury and suffocation.
• Keep a close eye on pet food bowls as these are magnets for little hands and mouths. The kibble is also a proven choking hazard.
• Tall bookcases can look like an indoor jungle gym to your children. Secure bookcases, tvs and other large items to the wall to prevent them from toppling over onto your children.
• Houseplants are a lovely addition to the home, but should be kept out to the reach of children. Additionally, make sure all plants are non-toxic.
• Use a baby gate at the top and bottom of the stairs or to block the entrance to any “off limits” room. There are a wide variety of baby gates on the market, to match virtually any style.For more information on keeping your baby safe, please visit NiteOwl Pediatrics, Chattanooga pediatric urgent care.