Childproofing Your Home - Mississippi State Department of Health

Childproofing Your Home

Even ordinary items around the home can be dangerous to a small child. Here are simple steps you can take to make everyday life safe for your child.

Around the Family Car And in the Garage


	Always secure your baby in an approved car seat.
	Never leave your baby unattended in a car.
	Keep your baby away from workshop and garage areas.

In the Kitchen


	Test formula temperature on your wrist before feeding your baby.
	Use proper safety belts in the high chair.
	Keep small, sharp objects out of the baby's reach and off the floor.
	Turn handles of all pots and pans to the back of the stove.
	Lock up cleaners, insecticides and poisonous substances.
	Plastic bags should be stored well out of the baby's reach.

In the Bedroom or Nursery


	Never leave your baby alone on the changing table.
	Put your baby to sleep on her back or side in a crib with a firm mattress and no soft bedding.
	Don't put pillows, large or floppy toys, or loose plastic sheeting in the crib.
	Use only flame-resistant clothing and bedding.
	Crib slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart.
	Hang mobiles out of the baby's reach.
	Read the label each time you give your child medicine.

In the Bathroom


	Never leave your baby alone in the tub. Ignore telephones and doorbells during a bath.
	Test the water with your elbow before bathing to prevent scalding baby.
	Keep all medicines and pills secure and out of reach of your child.
	Keep soap and shampoo out of reach.
	Always keep the lid down on the toilet.

In the Whole House


	All windows should have window guards.
	Clean up spills immediately to prevent falls.
	Never leave your baby alone with small children or pets.
	Playpen mesh should be smaller than the buttons on your baby's clothing.
	Secure all small or scatter rugs to the floor with carpet tape.
	Keep all plants out of your child's reach.
	Matches should be kept well out of reach.
	Cap or cover unused electrical outlets and secure electrical wires.
	If you have stairs, install safety gates correctly.
	Keep the house smoke-free and lead-free.
	Repair all chipping or peeling paint.
	Install smoke detectors throughout the house.
	Set hot water temperature to less than 120 degrees.
	Attach bookcases to the wall to keep them from tipping over.
	Make sure heaters are well ventilated and are protected by safety guards.
	Cover all sharp edges and corners of furniture.

Get in touch — find out more

For answers to your child safety questions, contact your local health office, or call (601) 576-7464.


		email this page		print this page

NEWSLETTERS