Safe at home

Hobs – 16 per cent of UK parents say their children have burnt themselves on a hob at some point.

Table corner guards – 27 per cent say their children have injured themselves by hitting their heads on a table corner.

Cupboard safety locks – 13 per cent say children have accidentally consumed detergent pads.

Electrical plug socket guards – 13 per cent say children have injured themselves on electrical sockets.

Stairgate – 33 per cent say children have injured themselves on the stairs.

Bed/crib barriers – 23 per cent say children have injured themselves falling from a bed or crib.

The Child Accident Prevention Trust offers a useful online guide to keeping kids safe. And online child safety company Fred offers expert tips and advice, along with award-winning products to keep homes safe and curious little hands out of harm’s way.

Meanwhile home interior experts Hillarys have come up with some simple tips to accident-proof your home:

Put away or hide anything sharp

This might seem obvious, but sharp objects and items should be put away, including anything that breaks easily or can shatter into tiny pieces. Hide knives and scissors in drawers that are out of reach and ensure glass ornaments aren’t in touching distance. Sharp edges on furniture can also be a hazard if your child takes a tumble, so think about investing in corner guards.

Cupboard locks

By putting locks on cupboards, you can be sure that everything you have put away is inaccessible to your child. There are a variety of locks to choose from that can either be opened with a number combination, or a magnetic knob. Choosing a lock can really depend on how inquisitive and clever your child is, so be sure to purchase one that your child won’t be able to figure out.

Plug sockets covers

Plug socket covers ensure that you child can’t go anywhere near electricity by covering the holes the pins go into.

Choose carpet over hard flooring

Hard flooring can be a slip hazard for children, especially when they are zooming around the house playing in their socks. Carpets or soft rugs prevent the slipping, but also soften their fall if they are unsteady on their feet.

Stair gates

Gates at the top and the bottom of the stairs will discourage their temptation to go climbing. They will only be able to access the stairs if you open the gate for them.

Make sure furniture is fixed to the wall

With children grabbing and pulling on everything they touch, it’s vital to ensure nothing heavy will fall on them. Most furniture comes with fittings to be drilled securely into the wall so check this is done for all shelves, drawers and cupboards.

Radiator covers

In the winter with the heating on full blast, radiators can get very hot. Radiator covers come in finishes which can give your room a great new look, but more importantly, they protect children from burning themselves.

Choose your house plants carefully

Spiky plants like Cacti are a big no-no, and there are other plants that may be toxic to children if ingested. It is best to keep them out of the way, otherwise try hanging plants around your home so they are out of reach.

Visit

https://fredsafety.co.uk

capt.org.uk

www.Hillarys.co.uk