How to Baby Proof a Fireplace

The fireplace is often the focal point of the home. Guests enjoy gathering around the fireplace for warmth, but your baby will likely to be drawn to the fireplace with hopes of exploring every inch. But there are ways to baby proof your fireplace to make it safe for your little one to be around.

Instructions

1. Look at your fireplace from your baby's point of view. Get on your hands and knees to see what they see. Then take notes of anything you think might be dangerous.

2. Soften the hard edges of your fireplace by adding blankets or throw pillows. Hearth pads are also available for purchase. They fit over the sharp corners to provide extra padding. That way, if your baby falls, he will have a softer place to land.

3. Lock the fireplace doors. Your baby will be curious to see what's inside the fireplace, but it's not a safe place for him to play. Door guards are available for purchase, or you can get creative and lock the doors using household items, like a chain and pad lock.

4. Put fireplace tools out of reach. These tools should be in a location where adults can access them if needed, but a child should not play with these tools. You should also remove items like lighters and matches.

5. Remove anything that's potentially flammable from the fireplace area. It's not unusual for a child to roll around in the drapes, or play in the large pile of newspapers. If these get too close to the fireplace, they could catch fire.

6. Install a fireplace gate. These gates are designed to fit around the fireplace hearth. However, they're open and they're made of material that will stand up to the heat when the fire place is in use. Many of these gates fold up for easy storage once your child is older, or when you have special guests at your home.

7. Light a fire in your fireplace to see if there are any additional hazards. Sometimes, glass doors on a fireplace can become hot to the touch, or ashes may fly out onto the hearth. Take note of these hazards and fix them once the fireplace has cooled down.