Home safety is a major concern for all parents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accidental injury is known to be the leading cause of death in children. Many of these accidents are avoidable with education and proper care. Safety proofing your home and teaching your child safety rules is imperative in decreasing their risk of injury.
Precautions
There are a number of basic preventative measures that should be taken at home. Smoke detectors must be functioning and tested every six months. The water heater should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower to avoid burns. Window guards should be placed on windows that are above ground level, and gates should be used on stairs when children are young. Pools and hot tubs should be enclosed. Medicine and poisons should be locked up or kept well out of reach. Young children should always be supervised closely and never left alone in or around water.
Home Alone Rules
When children are home alone, they must have specific rules and guidelines. These rules should include keeping doors and windows locked and never answering the door unless specifically instructed to do so. They should be aware of their food-preparation guidelines, such as if they may use the stove or microwave. Revealing that they are alone to anyone while on the phone or computer is never acceptable. Activities that increase the risk of injury, such as climbing, should be avoided. Children must know their address and phone number and be comfortable with making emergency calls before being allowed to stay home alone.
Emergency Plan
Planning for and being comfortable with any potential emergency is key. There must be a plan of escape from each area of the house in case of fire and a designated meeting place outside. It must be imposed on the child not to return inside for any reason. In case of a tornado, they must know where the safest place in the house is. An emergency supply, such as a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, a blanket and some basic food and water items, should be kept in this area at all times.
Contact and Emergency Numbers
A list of contact numbers and home addresses should be posted next to every phone. These numbers should include the parents' mobile numbers and the numbers of a nearby neighbor and friend or relative who can be trusted. Local emergency numbers, such as 911 and poison control, should also be included.
Emergency Products
There should always be a flashlight with batteries in a specific place in the house. Functional fire extinguishers should be available on each floor, and your child should be comfortable with their use. First-aid kits should be easily accessible. A mobile phone or land-line that is not cordless should be available in case of a power outage.
