When toddlers start walking, they are very active and eager to explore the world around them, making them susceptible to injuries in their own home during moments of caregiver distraction. Living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens… are all places where accidents can occur.
In the Living Room
The living room contains many objects that pique a child’s curiosity. Hot water kettles should not be left unattended in the living room; if necessary, they should be placed in a hidden box in a corner to prevent scalding accidents.
Electrical appliances such as televisions, radios, and fans should not be left for children to play with; electrical outlets should be kept out of reach. This rule applies to all other rooms in the house as well. Additionally, any unused electrical outlets should be covered with tape to prevent children from inserting metal objects, which could lead to electric shocks.
Cigarettes and lighters are items that children often find interesting. Therefore, it’s best to extinguish cigarettes immediately upon leaving the living room; ideally, smoking should be avoided altogether in homes with young children. Lighters and matches should be kept out of children’s reach to prevent fire hazards and burns.
In the Kitchen
The kitchen is a place filled with items for children to explore but is also a location where many unfortunate accidents happen. Fragile items like cups, saucers, and bowls, sharp objects like knives, heavy items like mortars and pestles, and food that can cause choking, such as beans and peanuts, should be kept out of children’s reach.
– Do not leave chairs or items that children can climb on, as these may tip over and cause fractures or injuries.
– When cooking, pot handles should be turned inward to prevent children from reaching and spilling hot food onto themselves, causing burns.
– Do not allow children to sit on the edge of the kitchen counter to watch you cook, even for a short time; never let them stay there to do something quickly since they may fall or touch dangerous items. Furthermore, they may think it is a safe place to climb and play later.
– Avoid carrying or holding children while handling hot items, as tripping or falling can cause accidents for both the adult and the child.
– Keep hot food away from the edges of low tables.
– Wipe up wet spills in the kitchen to prevent slipping and falling accidents.
In the Bathroom
– Do not keep electrical appliances like hair dryers or razors near children; if they come into contact with water, there is a risk of electric shock.
– Do not allow children to play with soap, shampoo, or toothpaste, as they often put these items in their mouths and could become poisoned. Razors should be kept out of children’s reach to prevent cuts.
– Do not leave water in buckets or containers to prevent accidental drowning if a child falls in. If storing water, ensure these containers have lids.
In the Bedroom
The child’s bed should have barriers around it to prevent injuries from falling while sleeping.
Avoid placing too many pillows around the child to prevent suffocation while sleeping.
Never leave plastic bags near where children sleep or play, as they can put their heads inside and suffocate.
Key Considerations
With Pets: Never leave children alone with pets, as their claws and teeth can cause injuries. Teach children not to poke eyes, pull ears, or tails of cats and dogs. Pet food should be kept in a separate dish, and children should not approach pets while they are eating or sleeping, nor should they touch their food, as these situations can lead to “reactions.”
Do not approach newborn puppies or kittens, as their mothers may “react” to protect them. Avoid going near pets showing unusual behavior or when they are fighting.
With Toys: Children can choke on or swallow small parts that may come loose from toys. Therefore, regularly check toys for missing pieces. Children may also swallow batteries from toys, especially those containing mercury or potassium salts, which are very dangerous. When no longer in use, batteries should be stored securely or disposed of immediately to prevent them from falling out in the room.
With Medicines, Cosmetics, and Chemicals: All should be kept out of children’s reach.
Regarding Home Architecture: Prevent dangerous activities like sliding down stairs or squeezing through balcony railings, which can lead to falls.
Children always love to play. If we prohibit their games, they may become passive and lose their spontaneity. Therefore, parents should stay alert to objects that could pose dangers to their children without banning them from playing. Parents can spend time playing with their children, guiding them in play, and once children understand, they should always explain and remind them about risky behaviors to help them avoid dangers themselves.
