Baby Gate Specs
Baby gates offer extra safety once children are able to crawl and investigate their surroundings. It is not recommended that the gate be the sole consideration for keeping your child in a safe area. Only supervision is considered safe.
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Gate Selection
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Select a baby gate that meets CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards. Read the label to look for one or more safety affiliation logos. The slats of the gate will not exceed 3 inches. Most gates span 26 inches to 72 inches and often come with extensions to meet desired widths. Gates range in height from 29 inches to 32 inches and come with a variety of closure styles such as single-hand release options and foot-release latches.
Gate Types
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Baby gates come in three main types: hardware or screw-in styles, pressure styles and fabric or panel constructions. Screw-in gates are considered the most secure and are used for stairways, as they affix to the wall or door jamb with screws. Pressure gates use pads to attach to the wall or jamb, and because there are no screw holes, these do not damage the house. Retractable fabric and clear panel gates offer another solution to the security choices, allowing rapid removal of the gate and a see-through option. Gates are made out of a range of materials colored to fit the interior decor. They are manufactured in wood, metal, plastic and vinyl.
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Choosing the Gate
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Consider what use the gate will be needed for, such as securing a stairway or for a rambunctious child. Decide which gates and styles best suit the intended use, house design and environment. Gate prices range from $60 to more than $200.
Gate Positioning and Options
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Check the gate to make sure the screws haven't loosened. Watch pressure type gates for security of the pads and fatigue, as some models are not as safe or sturdy as the screw types. Position the gates in doorways and on the top and bottom of stairs. Add extension wings if necessary. Wings and panels can be purchased separately and are used for enhancing gate utility, such as screening off hearth areas or dividing hallways. Never place a pressure style gate at the top of stars. Do not place the gate higher than 2 inches from the floor, to prevent child entrapment. Remove any objects or furniture that may encourage the child to climb onto the gate.
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References
- Photo Credit baby image by Olberto Mejia. from Fotolia.com
