Your child protection checklist

It is true that your child is the most precious thing in the world. It's also true that when he starts climbing, you'll have a lot of walking to do.

It's time to accept that child protection will now become one of your most important daily tasks.

Here's a guide on how and when to make your home safer for every age and stage of your baby's growth.

Security of the newborn

Your baby is so precious and you want to do everything you can to keep him safe.

Here are some simple steps you can take to childproof your home:

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home. If there's a fire or gas leak, you'll know before it gets out of hand.
• Place a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place on each floor (always keep one in the kitchen). If you live in a high-rise building, plan your escape (ask your administrator).
• Anchor TVs and furniture to the wall using anti-tip straps. You can get them online. (Thanks to them, houses are safe against earthquakes and children do not tip them over and get bruised when they climb on them or pull against them).
• Keep all cords at least three meters away from the child's bed... there is a risk of strangulation.
• Install a gate around the pool or hot tub to protect your child... and visiting children.
• Keep the crib free of blankets, pillows, bumpers or large bulky toys for the first 12 months.

And while you're at it, it's a good idea to take a first aid course!

Security for your soon-to-be-crawling baby

Now the fun begins... at least for the baby. Once your baby starts moving, you really have to be on your toes.

• Use baby gates to block off inaccessible areas. It is especially important to place one at the top of the stairs, around the pet food or cat litter. And if you have a working fireplace, place a gate around it.
• Install latches on any cabinets you don't want your child to enter, especially those that contain toxic cleaning products, medications, or small objects that could pose a choking hazard. (If you have enough space, some parents like to leave one cabinet unlocked so their child can happily explore safe objects such as plastic containers).
• Put a latch on the toilet lid!
• Do not leave buckets of water around.
• Never handle hot food/liquids while holding a baby. Sudden exposure can cause severe burns.
• Cover the sharp corners of the furniture with protective bumpers. They come in many colors, sizes and materials, so you can choose the one that best suits your space. (If you need to cover them immediately - or when you're traveling - you can temporarily reduce the risk by covering them with cotton wool and several layers of masking tape).
• Little crawlers do crazy things, like stick their tongues into electrical outlets or pull out plugs - half way - and touch them! Cover any electrical outlets that are within reach or replace them with a child-proof version. Hide electrical sockets behind furniture.

Security for your soon-to-be-walking baby

Your baby is on the way to walking, and things are about to get a lot more exciting - and risky!

We will help you with these important tips to help you secure your home:

• Keep windows closed or install window guards to protect your baby from falling out.
• Do not allow your child to enter the kitchen without your presence!
• Install the oven lock and knob covers on the stove.
• Put away sharp objects. This means putting the knife block in temporary storage and keeping the cutlery in a drawer with a lock.
• Place alcoholic beverages in a tall or locked cabinet.
• Lock toilet seats in the closed position (just make sure big kids... and adults... know how to unlock them!)
• To protect the child... and visiting children, install a gate around the pool or hot tub.

Think of it this way: childproofing is an essential measure that goes a long way to keeping your entire family safe.

Ultimately, some areas of your home are more susceptible to danger than others. Many accidents happen in places that you or I neglect in our daily activities and responsibilities. That's why it's important to be aware of potential dangers throughout your day, especially when your children are around. Just put them into practice and don't be surprised if you find yourself checking items off this list a little faster than you think.