Get informed.
Some rooms are danger zones with their own unique hazards. Knowing the risks is half the battle. Take the tour of each room and do the prevention checklist for other accidents waiting to happen...
Kitchen Dangers:Burning, Scalding, Choking & Poisoning
1. Emergency numbers posted near phones.
2. Back burners used on stove, and pot handles turned toward back; guards on stove knobs, to avoid accidental burns or scalding.
3. Fire extinguisher easily accessible.
4. Detergents, pet supplies, vitamins, sharp utensils, and small, hard foods like nuts and carrots stored out of children's reach or behind child safety locks.
Bathroom Dangers: Scalding, Electrical Shocks & Poisoning
1. Children never left alone, even briefly.
2. Safety locks on toilet lids.
3. Water heater temperature set at 120 degrees F or less.
4. Electrical appliances kept away from water.
5. First aid supplies (and medicines, razors and cosmetics) locked in cabinet. Ipecac syrup on hand, to be used only if directed by a poison control center.
Family Room Dangers: Fire, Falling, Poisoning, Gunshots & Choking
1. Smoke alarms on every level and every sleeping area, tested monthly; batteries replaced twice yearly. Carbon monoxide detectors on every level.
2. Multiple fire escape routes practiced from every room, and outside meeting place determined.
3. Safety gates at top and bottom of stairs.
4. Window blind and drapery cords tied up or refitted with safety tassels.
5. Firearms stored unloaded and locked up. Ammunition locked in a separate location.
Bedroom/Nursery Dangers: Suffocation, Choking & Falling
1. Crib has maximum 2 3/8 inches between slats; no protrusions over 1/16 inch.
2. Toys, pillows, soft bedding and plastic materials removed from crib.
3. Window guards on all windows except emergency exits.
4. Tall or heavy furniture secured to walls; sharp edges cushioned.
Now let's look at some pitfalls to avoid...
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