Toddler Room Safety Tips
When your child approaches the age of two and is starting to get mobile, it’s time to begin the second phase of safe sleep practices to ensure your home is safe: Toddler Proofing.
You will not always be on hand to guard your toddler from the dangers in your home. Taking preventive measures is the best way to ensure your child’s safety.
Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your toddler's bedroom is a safe place:
The Bed
Convert the crib into a toddler bed (if that is a feature). If the crib is a convertible model, purchase the correct hardware to make the conversion.
Check all fasteners on the toddler bed to ensure it's nice and tight.
Re-read all warning labels. If you are unsure about anything you read, or need assistance, call the consumer service center and they'll be able to assist you.
The toddler bed should be placed away from the windows. If there are pictures hung up on the wall, make sure they’re not above the bed or within reach.
Furniture in the Room
Children will sometimes try to climb on furniture, so make sure to secure all dressers, bookcases, desks and any tall wall furniture with angle braces or anchors. Anchors are usually included with the furniture when purchased; otherwise they can be obtained at any hardware store. This will secure and help to prevent the furniture from tipping over onto a climbing child.
Cover all sharp corners with padding or corner covers.
Lighting
Use nightlights that do not have a cord and have no access to the bulb to prevent burns, tripping or entanglement. Cover all outlets in the house that are within your child’s reach with child-safe outlet covers.