About 2.5 million children are injured or killed by hazards in the home each year. The encouraging news? Many of these incidents are preventable with simple, affordable safety devices available today.
When choosing child-safety products, look for devices that are sturdy enough to protect your child but easy for adults to operate. Always follow installation instructions carefully to ensure they function properly.
If you have older children in the home, remind them to re-secure safety devices after use. And remember—no device is completely childproof. Determined children can sometimes defeat even well-installed products. Safety devices add protection, but supervision remains essential.
The good news is that you can childproof your home at a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional. Safety devices are widely available at hardware stores, baby supply shops, supermarkets, drug stores, home stores, and online retailers.
Essential Child-Safety Devices for Your Home
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Safety Latches and Locks
Install safety latches on cabinets and drawers in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and laundry rooms to help prevent access to cleaning supplies, medications, and sharp objects. Choose durable products that withstand pulling and tugging but are easy for adults to use.Even products with child-resistant packaging should be locked away—“child-resistant” does not mean childproof.
According to Colleen Driscoll, Executive Director of the International Association for Child Safety (IAFCS), “Installing an ineffective latch is not the answer. It’s important to understand parental habits and behavior. Some inexpensive latches are easy to install—but many parents do not consistently re-latch them.”
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Safety Gates
Use gates to prevent falls down stairs and restrict access to hazardous areas. For the top of stairways, choose hardware-mounted gates that screw into the wall. These are more secure than pressure-mounted gates. -
Door Locks and Knob Covers
Use door locks to prevent children from entering rooms with potential dangers, such as pools, workshops, or storage areas. Door knob covers are inexpensive but may not stop taller or persistent children. -
Anti-Scald Devices
Install anti-scald devices on faucets and showerheads. Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C) to reduce the risk of burn injuries. -
Smoke Detectors
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries annually unless using sealed 10-year battery models. -
Window Guards and Safety Netting
Install window guards to help prevent falls from windows, balconies, decks, and stair landings. Ensure proper installation and regular maintenance. -
Corner and Edge Bumpers
Use padded bumpers on sharp furniture edges to reduce injuries from falls. -
Outlet Covers and Tamper-Resistant Plates
Use outlet covers or tamper-resistant receptacles to help prevent electrical shocks. Make sure covers cannot be easily removed by children. -
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors
Install CO detectors outside sleeping areas. These are especially critical in homes with gas or oil heat, fireplaces, or attached garages. -
Window Blind Cord Safety
Remove or cut looped blind cords to prevent strangulation hazards. Whenever possible, choose cordless window treatments. -
Door Stops and Finger Guards
Use door stops or finger guards to help prevent hand and finger injuries. -
Accessible Phone
Keep a cordless or mobile phone nearby when supervising young children, especially around bathtubs, pools, or other high-risk areas.
Final Thoughts
Childproofing your home does not require major renovations—just thoughtful preparation. Simple safety devices, properly installed and consistently used, can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Every home and family is different. During your next home inspection, consider asking a Certified Master Inspector about safety recommendations tailored to your household layout and daily routines.
Download and read the full CHILD SAFETY PDF here:
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