Purses and Keys
Hazards: Purses contain an assortment of hazards, including medication, coins, paper clips and sharp objects. Decorative key rings often have small parts that can come off and pose a choking hazard.Remedy: It may seem like you’ve got the entire house completely babyproofed, but not if you regularly set your purse or keys where your child can reach them. Make it a habit to keep these items locked away or out of reach and never let a baby teeth on a key ring.
Floors
Hazards: Deep carpets hide objects that can cause choking such as coins. The corners of kitchen floors, especially underneath cabinet edges, often harbor choking hazards like dried pasta, beans or pet food.Remedy: Get down on the floor and check for items regularly. Keep the floor swept and vacuumed and make sure any pasta or other spills are cleaned up immediately. Keep pet food and bowls inaccessible to children.
Other Tips
Childproofing is ongoing. Don’t just do the job of babyproofing once. Take a look around before your baby is born, once your baby is crawling, and again once he starts walking. Be sure to get down on your hands and knees as you look around the home, to find hazards your adult eyes may not see as readily as your baby’s eyes will.
Educate Yourself and Other Caregivers. Make sure you take a first aid and CPR class, and encourage anyone who will be taking care of your child to do the same, including grandparents, aunts and uncles. Make sure child care providers and babysitters are CPR certified.
As an extra measure, consider purchasing a CPR Prompt Rescue Aid (Compare Prices) for around $40. This device contains spoken, step-by-step instructions on how to perform CPR on a child. There are full-size versions available as well as a key chain version.
Employ Constant Supervision. Remember, the most crucial part of babyproofing involves adult supervision. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep a close watch on your child at all times.
