Baby Proofing your home from Household Poisons

The time has come when it’s time for me to start thinking about BABY-PROOFING my house with safety latches and locks.  My little one is getting the point were moving and grooving is a part of everyday life.  We’re not crawling just yet, but as each day passes the rolling and knee scooting is getting more defined.

As I begin to baby-proof my home I need to realize it’s not just about avoiding the ka-boom and big ouch from a fall off the couch. It’s also about making sure that my home is safe from poisonous materials.  I’ve been talking with family, friends and doing my own research. This truly is not a one night project. I really need to write down a plan of attack.

All of us with babies know that everything goes in their mouth! Statistics reveal that accidental poisonings occur in 1 million children under the age of 6 per year. To avoid becoming a statistic you need to go through your home and lock up any/all toxic materials. I hope this article helps you to identify those substances that are poisonous and how you need to react if your baby comes into contact.

Identifying poisonous substances:

I suggest make a map of your home. Plan to tackle one room a day/night. You’re going to want to write down anything you think might be toxic. Look everywhere, drawers, closets, and cabinets. Put these items in one location OUT OF YOUR CHILD’S REACH! If you find something that you’re not sure about call the American Association of Poison Control Center hot line at 800-222-1222.

How can I keep my child safe?

Tips#1 NEVER refer to medicine as candy. It’s recommended to not associate the two. We want to instill in our children that they don’t eat or drink anything without first asking mom or dad.  This way you can monitor the situation.

Tip #2 Try to buy household products that are less toxic (example non-chlorine bleach)

Tip#3 Installation of carbon monoxide alarms outside bedrooms. (These can be purchased at your local home improvement store.)

Tip #4 Keep the Poison Control Center phone number on your refrigerator for you and the baby sitter and on speed-dial on your phone. This way in case you go into a panic situation you already have a plan in place.

I also found this helpful list of hazardous substances and want to share it with you.

• Prescription drugs
• Personal cosmetics, mouthwash, baby oil, nail products
• Cough and cold medicine
• Cleaning products, toilet bowl cleaner, bleach, dish detergent
• Prescription drugs
• Pain relievers
• Vitamin supplements
• Household plants, especially philodendron and holly berries
• Fruit seeds
• Windshield washer fluid, paint thinner, kerosene, lighter fluids, antifreeze
• Alcohol

So, you can see there is a lot to prepare. Although it seems overwhelming right now I will be able to rest easier knowing that my house is safe. Now the big question…. Do I go with latches or locks? Happy baby-proofing! If you don’t know where to start we suggest One Step Ahead and we have One Step Ahead Coupons that will save you money or get you free shipping.