As mentioned in our previous post “Child Proof Your Home” – The following are some handy tips and hints on how to childproof the home – increasingly a necessary must for homeowners and investors alike.
Kitchen and Wet Areas:
- Scald-preventing devices are installed on bathroom taps, so the temperature of bathwater can be measured, and the water thermostat is turned down to 37 degrees Celsius.
- Unplug and store all electrical gadgets. Install latches and/or locks on cabinets, drawers and lids (toilets are a great place for kids to throw items into).
- Keep handles and cords out of reach by facing handles into the centre of the stove, bench or towards the rear wall.
- Cords should be kept short.
- Store cleaning supplies, hygiene products and other points and dangerous items such as razors, knives, etc in a locked closet or cabinet.
- Living and Sleeping Areas: Securely attach entertainment and shelving units to the wall to prevent them falling onto, or being pulled down by, a child.
- Place screens, preferably wall mounted, around fireplaces, radiators and other heating units.
- Shorten strings and cords on curtains and blinds or tie them up as high as possible to avoid children becoming tangled in them.
- Remove any poisonous plants and ensure house plants are kept out of a child’s reach.
Outdoor Areas:
- Ensure pools, and spas, are fully fenced, with well-maintained, self-closing gates.
- Fence off play areas from the street and the driveway because cars and kids don’t mix.
- Safely store mobile BBQ’s, and ensure they are properly covered when not in use.
First National Metro 