The Professional Choice

A companion overview to the popular "Ask Mr. Handyman" radio program airing on Christian Talk Radio, KCRO 660AM Saturdays @ 9:30AM.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Baby Proof Your Home

I have a Baby on the Way. How Can I Baby Proof my Home?


So you have a baby on the way, congratulations! The first step in baby proofing your home is to look at the environment from the point of view your baby will have once it starts crawling. By crawling around your home on your hands and knees, you can see the world from a baby’s-eye view, which will present dangers you hadn’t seen before. As your child starts to walk, you of course will need to reevaluate your child proofing measures.

Tips for Baby Proofing your Home

Key things to look for:

  • What’s within the baby’s reach? Are there small objects on or close to the floor that the baby could choke on? Place unsafe objects higher up or put them away for a period of time.
  • Are the sharp edges on furniture such as coffee tables or end tables covered up?
  • Do you have large, top heavy furniture? As babys start to crawl they begin pulling themselves up on furniture. Making sure dresser and cabinet drawers stay shut and bolting certain pieces of furniture to the wall can ensure the safety of your baby.

Home repairs to prepare for your baby:

  • Place outlet covers on electrical outlets.
  • Install safety gates in doorways of unsafe rooms and stairwells. Remember to buy safety gates that bolt to the wall for use at the top of stairs. They are much more secure than pressure gates.
  • Prevent pinched fingers by using doorstops and door holders on doors and their hinges.
  • Install windows that are double hung and can be opened from the top.
  • Check existing smoke detectors and install a fire extinguisher, especially in the kitchen.
  • Install childproof locks on all lower cabinets and drawers.

Mr. Handyman can help make your home a safer place for your entire family, while helping you to prepare for your newest arrival! Whether it’s painting the nursery or assembling a new crib, we will have the job completed on time and done right, so you can feel prepared for your family’s new addition. We provide both minor and major home repairs you can depend on to be correct when we walk out the door. Don't trust the process of baby proofing your home to just anyone, request services from America's most trusted handyman.  Call today 402-502-5212.