The last thing you want to think about is having your child get injured. But there are some hazards in your home, and accidents do happen: According to the National Safety Council, more than 26 million injuries at home required medical attention in 2019, and Safe Kids reports that 3.5 million children go to the emergency room each year because of injuries that happen at home.
And for those in the bleeding disorders community, common injuries can be more severe. Plus, symptoms of hemophilia, such as damaged joints, may increase the risk of falls.
By and large, these accidents around the home are preventable. With the right precautions, you can reduce the risk of falls, poisonings, burns, cuts and other injuries that occur at home. Use these tips to create a safer home environment.
Eliminate Common Tripping and Fall Hazards at Home
Children are almost always on the move, so some tripping hazards might be of a greater risk to them. Now is the time to remove, replace, or fix these items, which can include:
- Raised doorway thresholds
- Electrical cords across the floor
- Loose throw rugs
- Loose floorboards
- Cracks in your driveway
- Clutter on the floor, such as toys or boxes
- Poor lighting (replace with brighter bulbs)
- Slippery flooring, such as bathroom tiles (use an anti-slip sealer)
Pad Sharp Edges and Secure Sharp Objects
Some pieces of furniture have sharp edges that can pose a particular risk to children, as kids are always on the move and small enough to run into furniture head-on. Use edge cushions on the corners of furniture such as tables, bed frames and desks.
Chances are you have a number of sharp objects in your home. Children are naturally curious and could get hold of things like razors, scissors and kitchen knives,, so keep them in a safe and secure place, such as a locked cabinet.
Use Safety Equipment
Without a harness or safety strap, toddlers and young children run the risk of falling out of highchairs and changing tables. When using these items, always fasten your children securely in place to avoid falls.
Use Childproof Appliances
Common appliances that produce heat, such as ovens, toasters and coffee makers, pose fire and burn risks to unsuspecting children. Plus, children can get shocked by open electrical outlets if they place a metal object, such as a fork, inside them.
To mitigate these burn and electrocution risks, you can install childproof versions of these appliances and your electrical outlets. For example, does your child fiddle with the stove knobs? Get a set of stove knob covers that keep children from turning them but can be replaced when it’s time to cook.
Keep Household Poisons Out of Reach
Lock any cabinets, closets or storage areas that house substances that are poisonous when consumed, such as cleaning supplies, medicine and detergent.