How to Baby Proof a Kitchen

One of the most dangerous rooms in a child's home is the kitchen. As a child can touch or put anything in his mouth, the easiest thing that you can do is follow these safety precautions to baby proof a kitchen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Install safety latches on cupboard doors, especially those that contain toxic cleaning chemicals, vitamins and medications. Additionally, all poisonous products should be stored up high.

2. Cook food on the back burners of the stovetop, and remember to turn handles away from you. In the event that your child reaches up, he will be less likely to grab the pot handle and topple hot food or liquid onto himself.

3. Attach a locking mechanism onto the oven door so that your child is not able to open it.

4. Put sharp objects, such as knives and scissors, in a cupboard out of your child's reach. Do not place them on a countertop or in a drawer.

5. Choose to install drawers and cupboards that have smooth surfaces instead of handles. Some children are able to use handles as rungs and climb onto countertops.

6. Keep the dishwasher closed and locked at all times to protect your child against finding sharp objects.

7. Crawl on the floor at your child's level and scan for dangerous objects, such as exposed outlets and cords or items that a child might put in his mouth.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a security gate to block a child's access to the kitchen when you are not available, or secure your child in a highchair or playpen while you are cooking.
• Provide your child with a basket of age-appropriate toys to play with while you are in the kitchen.
• Never leave small children unattended in the kitchen.
• Always place hot foods and liquids out of a child's reach, whether on the stove or work surface.

[jezzikabret]

on 8/17/2008 Very helpful :)