Common Household Hazards to Children
Every year, an estimated 71,000 children are seen in hospital emergency rooms with medication poisoning, according to Texas Children's Hospital, and drowning is the leading cause of death among children between the ages of 1 and 4 years. There are many common household hazards that contribute to childhood accidents and injuries. Learn how to manage and reduce these hazards to ensure your child's health. Does this Spark an idea?
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Choking Hazards
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Household choking hazards come in many forms. Toys with small, removable parts are to blame for choking injuries as are button batteries and other electronic parts. Pay careful attention to the manufacturer's recommended product age and any pertinent warnings. Small household items such as screws or buttons should be secured. Food is another common choking hazard. Do not leave small children unattended during mealtimes, and make sure food is cut into small pieces. Avoid foods such as grapes, hotdogs and peanuts until the child is old enough to properly chew them.
Furniture Safety
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Television stands, dressers and other high-profile furniture present a tipping hazard. Small children can push, pull or try to climb on the furniture, resulting in the piece toppling over and injuring the child. There are several types of safety straps that will secure such furniture to prevent tipping. (
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Household Chemicals and Medications
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Children can often mistake common household chemicals, such as cleaners, for other innocent items that look like great fun to play with. Medications can also be mistaken for candy by a curious child. Keep these items in a locked cabinet out of a child's reach. If dangerous chemicals need to be kept in low cabinets, invest in sturdy child cabinet locks to keep the chemicals out of sight.
Bathroom Precautions
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One of the most dangerous rooms in a house is the bathroom. Place a nonskid mat inside the bathtub to prevent slipping injuries. Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub regardless of the amount of water inside. Install toilet lid locks to prevent small children from playing inside this potential drowning hazard. To prevent burns or scalding, set the thermostat on the hot water heater to no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fire Safety
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Keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children. Avoid using space heaters unless they are in newer, safe condition, and never place them close to window treatments or furniture. Secure all working fireplaces, blocking them off with appropriate screens or gates to prevent burns. Have smoke detectors installed on every level of your home and in each bedroom. Always have an escape plan in case of a fire.
Appliances and Outlets
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Cover all electrical outlets with childproof caps to reduce the risk of electrical shock. Keep all appliance doors on refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers closed and secured so children will not be tempted to climb inside and sharp or dangerous items will not be within reach. Also secure all cords to keep them from dangling to prevent strangulation or electrical shock.
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