Keep active toddlers safe: Remove household hazards

Toddlers are bursting with energy and ideas. They want to explore their environment and begin down the road to independence seemingly faster than the speed of light.

Once children become mobile, most parents are quick to eliminate the obvious dangers to inquisitive toddlers.

But safety experts say it is often the most commonplace household items that pose the greatest danger because they are easily overlooked. Unfortunately, many of these hidden hazards are often found in a toddler’s bedroom.

Windows

One of the most frequently overlooked safety hazards is the common window cord. Cords from window blinds, shades and draperies often capture the attention and imagination of a curious toddler but can pose a strangulation hazard if within reach.

This is especially true of older window coverings. Blinds, shades and draperies made before 2001 generally do not have the latest cord-safety features.

The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that consumers repair or replace pre-2001 corded blinds and window coverings with today’s safer products.

Nightlights

Children often view nightlights as toys because they can be colorful and come in all sorts of shapes and patterns.

To avoid having small fingers probing the electrical outlet, parents should install a brand of nightlight that can only be removed with a screwdriver.

Always buy "cool" nightlights; higher wattage bulbs can get hot and burn a curious hand. Make sure to keep plug protectors in all other unused outlets.

Beds

Once your baby is ready to come out of the crib, be sure the bed is low to the floor to prevent falls. Place it next to the wall and away from the windows for added safety.

Since toddlers love jumping on the bed, be sure the bed is low to the floor and that the mattress still fits snugly.

Doors

Another hazard often overlooked are the locks on a toddler’s door. Remove the locking knob on your child’s door and replace it with a non-locking variety.

Children at this age love to play games, and removing the lock ensures that you and your child can always enter or leave the room without restriction. This is especially important in case of an emergency.

There are few if any benefits to keeping the locks on the door; it should be a few years before the privacy argument arises.

Toddlers want to be independent, yet they are still very dependent upon you for many things. Parents want to give their child the freedom to roam and explore but need to keep their child safe at the same time.

If you follow these safety guidelines, the word "no" may be less common in the household. And you’ll be one step closer to a safer home and a happier toddler.