Collaborative Post
When it comes to protecting our children, many of us may spend our time worrying about the potential dangers that await them ‘outside’. These could be in the car, on public streets, at the park, or at the beach.
However, the fact is that there are a number of hazards that can be found around the home, some of which can potentially prove fatal. To help minimise the risk of accident or injury occurring in your home, here are some helpful tips for potential dangers to look out for and remove to keep your family as safe as can be.
Check Your Windows
If you have young children, it’s important that you make sure all of your windows are secure and that they cannot easily be opened by tiny fingers, especially if your home has more than one storey. However, you do need to make sure that all of the windows can be opened by an adult in case you need to use one as an exit during a fire.
Prepare For A Fire
Speaking of fire, taking the appropriate measures to prevent a fire is important but you also need to have plans in place just in case the worst happens. First things first, get your wiring checked by trained professionals to make sure your home’s electrical system doesn’t have any potentially dangerous issues. Companies such as Trade Facilities Services can carry out all the relevant checks and provide you with an Electrical Safety Certificate.
It’s also crucial that you install smoke alarms around your home and you may want to think of getting vape detectors too. It’s a good idea to have at least one fire extinguisher on hand. You also need to have an escape plan prepared, so the family can quickly leave the home in an emergency.
Keep Hazardous Substances Locked Away
Poisoning is a common cause of accidental death in the home. Culprits can include toxic houseplants, medication, pesticides, and cleaning products. Make sure that any potentially poisonous substances are kept locked away out of reach of children, and keep all child safety caps securely tightened. When it comes to plants, do your research before introducing any new houseplants to your home, and double-check the plants that are in your garden in case any species are particularly toxic. Some poisonous plants may produce flowers or berries that appear enticing to small children.
Prevent Choking Or Suffocation
Choking and suffocation or strangulation are also common causes of death around the home, particularly in older people or young children. If you have children under the age of 4, take care to keep small objects out of their reach, and be careful when preparing food, as they can easily choke on foods such as popcorn, nuts, grapes, and pieces of meat. You should also make sure there are no blinds or curtains with long dangling cords, as these can potentially strangle a young child.
Be Wary Of Water
Small children can drown in just a few centimetres of water, so it’s important that you never leave them unsupervised around even a small body of water. Never leave your child unattended in a bath, and if your garden has a pond or swimming pool, make sure it’s fenced off so they can only access it under your supervision.
By following these simple but effective steps, you can help to ensure the safety of your family around the home so it remains a safe, secure, and positive place for them to grow up.
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