Household Safety Checklists
Child Safety in the Home
Child Accident Prevention Trust
Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents

Safe Storage £29.99

The Kiddyguard Stairgate £54.99

When thinking about childproofing your home, it's a good idea to get down on your hands and knees to look around from your baby's height, as this means you'll easily spot any potential hazards. Remember to keep watch; mobile babies need your constant supervision. Commonsense also plays a big role in protecting your child – remember to always take your baby with you when you answer the door and never juggle hot food or drink when carrying your child.
  1. Move poisonous cleaning fluids from underneath the kitchen sink to a cupboard that is out of your baby's reach.
  2. Cover electrical sockets, put childproof latches on drawers/cupboards and ensure all electrical cords are out of the reach.
  3. If you have a fireplace, don't put objects above it that might attract your child. It's a legal requirement to have a fireguard if you have children in the house. Choose a large guard that can be fixed to the wall and make sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby at all times.
  4. Place all sharp objects and hot liquids away from table edges. Don't use tablecloths or placemats, as your baby may pull them and what's on them down.
  5. Keep rubbish bins in cupboards that your child can't access or use bins with child-resistant covers.
  6. Keep knives, breakables and other heavy and dangerous items locked up or out of reach.
  7. Use the back rings on the cooker when possible. When you are using the front ones, turn saucepan handles away from the edge.
  8. Avoid curtains and blinds with dangling cords.
  9. Make sure sharp edges, such as corners on coffee tables are covered with cushioned-edge protectors.
  10. Install safety gates and door gates, especially on stairs.
A great idea for curious babies is to set aside one cupboard that is safe for your child to open and explore. You'll probably find that your child no longer tries to access the contents of the other drawers and cupboards, unless you leave the doors open. Store safe but interesting things there that will appeal to your child, such as wooden spoons and empty yoghurt containers. Occasionally change the contents to give your baby a nice, but safe surprise!