How do I childproof the new home?

Childproofing the New Home

Moving into a new property presents an ideal opportunity to establish a safe environment for children from the outset. Proactive childproofing helps mitigate risks before a child becomes familiar with potential hazards. It is often most effective to carry out initial safety measures before unpacking all belongings or immediately upon arrival.

Pre-Move Considerations

• Hazard Assessment: Before furniture arrives, conduct a thorough walk-through of the empty property. Identify potential hazards such as sharp corners, accessible electrical sockets, unsecured windows, and areas where furniture might topple.
• Professional Inspections: Consider having a qualified electrician or a Gas Safe registered engineer inspect the property if there are any concerns about existing wiring, gas appliances, or the heating system.
• Initial Cleaning: A deep clean before moving in ensures a fresh start, removing any hidden hazards or residues from previous occupants. Hiring a professional cleaner can be beneficial for this task.

Immediate Priorities Upon Arrival

Certain items require immediate attention to establish a basic level of safety, especially if children are present during the move.

• Secure Hazardous Materials: All cleaning products, medications, alcohol, and any other toxic substances should be placed in high, locked cupboards or inaccessible areas immediately.
• Electrical Outlets: Install British Standard-compliant socket covers on all accessible electrical outlets. Ensure no loose wires are trailing, particularly behind entertainment systems or computer desks.
• Windows and Blinds: Fit window restrictors on all accessible windows, especially on upper floors, allowing ventilation but preventing full opening. Secure blind cords with safety cleats or fit cord tidies to eliminate strangulation risks.
• Temporary Barriers: Install sturdy stair gates at the top and bottom of all staircases. Temporary room dividers or playpens can be useful to cordon off unsafe areas while unpacking takes place.
• Designated Safe Space: Set up a safe, supervised play area or room where children can be contained and entertained whilst unpacking proceeds in other parts of the home.

Room-by-Room Childproofing Measures

Kitchen Safety

• Cupboards and Drawers: Install childproof latches on all lower cupboards and drawers, especially those containing sharp objects, breakables, or cleaning chemicals.
• Appliances: Use oven and hob guards. Secure fridge and freezer doors with latches if a child can open them. Keep small appliances like kettles and toasters well away from counter edges.
• Bins: Use bins with secure, child-resistant lids or place them inside a latched cupboard.

Bathroom Safety

• Chemical Storage: All cleaning products, medicines, and cosmetics must be stored in locked, high-up cabinets.
• Toilet Locks: Fit toilet lid locks to prevent drowning hazards and discourage playing with the toilet.
• Water Temperature: Adjust the water heater temperature to prevent scalding. Consider anti-scald devices for taps.
• Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats in baths and showers, and on tiled floors.

Living Areas and Bedrooms

• Furniture Anchoring: Anchor all heavy or tall furniture, such as bookshelves, chest of drawers, and television stands, to the wall using anti-tip straps. This prevents serious injury from toppling furniture, which is a common household hazard.
• Table Corners: Apply corner protectors to sharp edges of coffee tables, shelves, and other furniture.
• Televisions: Ensure televisions are securely mounted to the wall or placed on stable, anchored furniture. Consider how to move a large flat-screen TV without a box if it needs repositioning.
• Cords and Cables: Bundle and secure all loose electrical cords and cables to prevent tripping hazards or strangulation risks. Use cable management solutions to keep them out of reach.

Stairs and Hallways

• Stair Gates: Permanently install sturdy stair gates at both the top and bottom of all staircases. Ensure they are correctly fitted and regularly checked for security.
• Handrails: Verify that handrails are secure, robust, and at an appropriate height for adult use, while also ensuring no large gaps children could fall through.

Outdoor Spaces and Entryways

• Gates and Fencing: Inspect garden fences and gates for security and integrity. Ensure gates have childproof latches that are difficult for children to operate.
• Hazardous Plants: Identify and remove any poisonous plants from the garden. Familiarise yourself with common toxic species in the UK.
• Sheds and Garages: Ensure sheds and garages are always locked and inaccessible to children, as they often contain tools, garden chemicals, and other dangerous items.
• Driveways and Pavements: Be especially mindful of children near driveways, roads, and pavements, particularly during the busy moving day itself.

Ongoing Vigilance

Childproofing is not a one-time task. Children grow and develop new abilities rapidly, meaning their capacity to reach or manipulate safety devices changes. Regularly inspect all installed safety measures. Adapt childproofing as children age and reach new developmental stages, ensuring the home environment remains secure against evolving risks.