Making Your Property Safer For Children

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When we think of making a house child-proof, we tend to think in terms of protecting our toddlers or young children from the threats there. But it’s true that even young teenagers may require some protections too, even if they are generally more independent, and are less likely to be in danger of terrible judgement, like playing with the cleaning chemicals under the sink, or sticking cutlery in the power sockets.

That doesn’t mean they’re completely safe from all things at all times. You, as an independent and intelligent adult don’t have that luxury either. For this reason, identifying what these threats could be can help you better ensure your home is a safe place to occupy for people of all ages - but certainly those who may have a lack of adult judgement. For instance, if you have any legally-owned firearms (such as when living in a rural location), or dangerous tools, then taking the time to buy safe installations can ensure only you have access.

Let’s consider, with that kind of mindset, how to ensure your home remains safe for children of all ages:

Stairs, Ramps & Access

It’s essential to make sure your building has appropriate access, especially if you need room to manoeuvre a pushchair or a wheelchair to the front door. Ensuring your stairs are secure, even, and clearly defined will prevent a child from falling down, or small inclines can also prevent those drops. It’s also important to consider where to lock off access, such as making sure all second-floor windows are stuck on ventilation locks only so falling out of them is absolutely prevented. Still - even with that, a close parental eye is key.

The Driveway Area

Driveway areas are simple in their function, most of us know what they’re for and how to use them on our property. But it’s also true to say that for children, they can be quite dangerous - especially if you’re pulling in or out of the property without your child in the car, such as when heading out to grab a few groceries alone. It’s important to encourage your children to stay away from the driveway, to fence off the area from the rest of the garden, and perhaps to place mirrors, reflector lights, and a front gate to limit speed around obscured angles.

Climbable Objects

Children are pretty adept at climbing anything they can - of course, until they’re not. It’s impossible to make everything in your home anti-climb, for instance, as it’s not as if you’re going to place anti-climb paint on the walls, or wire on the top of your furniture. That said, it’s important to consider locking cupboard doors, to pull chairs in when you can, to make certain children are disciplined if climbing, to fill surfaces where appropriate, and to be very observant. Soft surfaces, carpet, and safety gates can also be helpful.

With this advice, you’re sure to make your property safer for your children in the best possible way. Note that even if you don’t have children, your friends might, and so it’s good to keep this in mind.