How to Childproof Stove Knobs

The kitchen is one of the most dangerous zones for children of all ages, with the stove being a major safety hazard. Properly childproofing your stove knobs is one major step you should take to keep children from accidentally burning themselves or starting a fire.

Things You'll Need

• Stove knob covers
• Stove knob locks

Instructions

1. Write down the make and model number of your stove, and visit the hardware store to search for stove knob covers. Stove knob covers slide into place over your existing knobs, making it difficult for children to turn the knobs.

2. Make sure the stove knob covers click into place over your knobs and test them to ensure they are properly installed. Properly installed stove knobs will make it impossible to turn the knob.

3. Remove the knobs completely from your stove. You can usually pull off the knobs by hand and keep them in a small box where little hands can't reach them. Only take out knobs and re-install them when you are planning to use the stove.

4. Install knob locks under pre-existing stove knobs. These plastic disks hold the knob in place, making it impossible to turn while they are installed. To use the stove, simply remove the knob, take off the disk and put the knob back in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Test all locking mechanisms after installation to ensure that they are properly installed to avoid accidents.

References

• Safe Beginnings
• Abuchon Hardware
• Consumer Reports