Print this childproofing checklist to help
you get your house ready for your new baby.
AROUND THE HOUSE
Get down on the floor and scan the room for small objects that
can cause choking hazards.
install outlet plugs on all outlets even ones up hig. Babies turn
into toddlers and toddlers climb.
Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs and other
dangerous areas
Hide electrical cords behind furniture or use hide-a-cord device.
Use window guards and safety netting on windows, decks, and landings.
If stair railings have openings wider than 4 inches, block with
plastic garden fencing or other material.
Install a fireplace cover.
Move gas fireplace keys out of reach.
Stow logs, matches, and fireplace tools out of reach.
Attach corner and edge guards to all corners of furniture and
fireplace ledges.
Secure furniture that can topple (bookcases, chests of drawers)
to the walls.
Keep televisions on low furniture, pushed back as far as possible.
Secure tall, tippy lamps behind furniture.
Cut off or tie up dangling cords on drapes and blinds.
Put non-slip pads under area rugs that don't have non-slip backs.
Install and maintain working smoke detectors and check them monthly.
Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
Plan a fire escape route.
Check for lead paint. If paint is flaking or peeling, have a professional
remove or seal it.
IN THE BATHROOM
Use locks on the toilet and cabinets.
Put all medicines and vitamins on a high shelf or cabinet away
from your baby's reach.
Set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Purchase an infant bathtub with contours or other features that
make it slip-resistant.
Get a soft cover for the tub water spout, and covers for the water
knobs.
IN THE NURSERY
Bassinet
Make sure it has a sturdy bottom and a wide stable base.
Make sure legs lock securely.
Use a firm mattress that fits snugly.
Avoid soft, fluffy bedding such as pillows, comforters, or sheepskins.
Changing table
Make sure it has a safety strap.
Find a place to keep baby wipes and other toiletries within your
reach but out of baby's.
Crib
Check that slats are no more than 2 3/8 inches apart.
Make sure the mattress is firm and fits snugly..
Avoid soft, fluffy bedding such as pillows, comforters, or sheepskins.
position it away from windows, heaters, lamps, wall decorations,
cords, and climbable furniture.
IN THE CAR
Purchase a car seat intended for infants
Install it in rear-facing position in middle of back seat.
Keep towels in the car to roll up and use to position baby or
wedge under car seat.
Practice removing and reinstalling car seat correctly.
Fill a Diaper Bag to leave in the car at all times. (see our Diaper
Bag Checklist for help)
Attach a mirror to your rear view mirror to view your baby while
driving.
IN THE KITCHEN
install locks on all cabinets and drawers
install plugs for all outlets, and covers for the stove's burner
knobs.
Remove all household cleaners from the bottom cabinets
Keep toasters, and other appliances unplugged and out of reach
GENERAL SAFETY
First aid
Take an infant CPR class.
Get an illustrated guide for choking and CPR.
Assemble a first-aid kit for babies. (Use our First Aid Kit Checklist)
Post emergency numbers next to your telephone.
POISON-PROOFING
move all plants out of baby's reach. Many are poisonous.
Survey your house and move all potentially toxic items out of
reach.
Post the Poison Control Centers emergency hotline number near
a phone. (800) 222-1222
Install CO detectors if you use gas or oil heat, or have an attached
garage.
