Discreet Measures to Keep the Grandchildren Safe and Allow Freedom at Home
Grandparents are real-life superheroes when it comes to supporting the family, often providing essential care for their grandchildren in their own homes. Ensuring a safe and baby-friendly environment in a grandparents’ home is crucial to keep the little ones protected while allowing the grandparents the freedom to enjoy their space. How can they strike the right balance between safety and comfort?
Here are our top recommendations for discreet and flexible baby-proofing in a grandparents’ home:
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Retractable Gates:
Retractable gates are the perfect solution for creating safe spaces when infants are around and allowing open access when not needed. They work wonders at the top and bottom of stairs, doorways, and even outdoors. Unlike traditional pressure gates, retractable gates eliminate the risk of trips and falls for grandparents, as they don’t have a bottom bar.
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On/Off Clips:
Living with cupboard and drawer locks 24/7 may not be necessary for grandparents. On/Off clips offer the freedom to use cupboards and drawers when grandchildren are not around, simply by turning the clip ‘on’ or ‘off.’ It’s essential to use on/off clips to secure cupboards and drawers containing cleaning products, medicines, sharp objects, and other hazardous items. These clips also come in handy for keeping curious little hands out of the pantry.
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Relocating Unsafe Items:
Moving hazardous items like cleaning products, medicines, and sharp objects to higher, safer locations is a simple yet effective measure. Grandparents should check bathroom or bedside drawers for medicines and relocate them to locked cupboards to avoid any accidental ingestion by infants.
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Fridge Magnets:
Small magnets can be choking hazards for toddlers. Relocate small-sized magnets to the higher sections of the fridge for safety. Additionally, consider placing large first aid information magnets on the fridge in case of emergency situations such as burns, poisons, or CPR. These magnets can be found in the complimentary First Steps Safe Steps safety packs provided after installation.
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Window Locks:
Children aged one to five years are at the highest risk of fall-related injuries from windows. Installing window locks is a quick and effective way to reduce this risk. Other safety measures include moving furniture away from window openings to prevent climbing, teaching children not to play near windows, and avoiding reliance on fly screens as barriers, as they can be easily pushed out with weight. Top-opening windows are generally safer but may not always be available.
If you’re a grandparent or caring for little ones and unsure about the safety of your home, don’t hesitate. Book a safety consultation with First Steps Safe Steps at https://firststepssafesteps.com.au/ or call 0490 413 147. Taking these simple safety precautions ensures that grandparents can cherish precious moments with their grandchildren in a secure and worry-free environment. Happy grandparenting!
