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Child Safety Devices for the Home

A child plays in the background while a security camera keeps watch.
A child plays in the background while a security camera keeps watch.

Approximately 2.5 million children are injured or killed by home hazards annually. Many incidents can be prevented using simple safety devices, though no device is completely childproof. Any safety device you buy should be sturdy enough to prevent injury to your child, yet easy for you to use. It’s important to follow installation instructions carefully. In addition, if you have older children in the house, be sure they re-secure safety devices. Remember, too, that no device is completely childproof; determined youngsters have been known to disable them. You can childproof your home for a fraction of what it would cost to have a professional do it. Listed below are 12 items that can help childproof your home:

1. Cabinet and Drawer Safety Latches

  • Prevents access to medicines, cleaners, sharp objects
  • Must be sturdy yet adult-friendly
  • Should be consistently re-latched
  • Even child-resistant packaging needs secure storage
Child safety lock securing a wooden cabinet drawer, preventing access and ensuring safety in the home.
Child safety lock securing a wooden cabinet drawer, preventing access and ensuring safety in the home.

2. Safety Gates

  • Prevents falls and restricts access to dangerous areas
  • Wall-mounted gates best for stairs
  • Look for JPMA certification seal
  • Avoid gates with dangerous “V” shapes
A baby gate secures the top of wooden stairs in a modern home.
A baby gate secures the top of wooden stairs in a modern home.

3. Door Locks

  • Controls access to hazardous areas
  • Place high for pool access
  • Consider alternatives to doorknob covers
  • Must be consistently re-secured
Locksmith installing a new digital door lock.
Locksmith installing a new digital door lock.

4. Anti-Scald Devices

  • Install on faucets and showerheads
  • Set water heater to 120° F
  • May require professional installation
Elegant marble-tiled shower with a modern rainfall showerhead.
Elegant marble-tiled shower with a modern rainfall showerhead.

5. Smoke Detectors

  • Install on every level near bedrooms
  • Check monthly
  • Replace batteries annually
  • Consider 10-year batteries
Testing the smoke detector for safety and peace of mind.
Testing the smoke detector for safety and peace of mind.

6.Window Protection

  • Install window guards and safety netting
  • Maximum 4-inch bar spacing
  • Ensure one escape window per room
  • Window screens aren’t fall protection
  •  
A close-up of a white plastic window lock latch.
A close-up of a white plastic window lock latch.

7.Corner and Edge Bumpers

  • Protect against furniture and fireplace edges
  • Must stay securely attached
  • Softens impact from falls
  •  
Soft corner protector on a wooden table ensures safety in child-friendly spaces.
Soft corner protector on a wooden table ensures safety in child-friendly spaces.

8. Outlet Covers

  • Prevent electrical shock
  • Must be child-removal resistant
  • Size should prevent choking
  •  
Childproofing in action — installing safety outlet cover
Childproofing in action — installing safety outlet cover

9. Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Install near sleeping areas
  • Essential for homes with:
    • Gas/oil heat
    • Attached garages
  •  
A smoke detector watches over a warmly lit room, ensuring safety from above.
A smoke detector watches over a warmly lit room, ensuring safety from above.

10. Window Blind Cord Safety

  • Cordless blinds preferred
  • Use safety tassels on miniblinds
  • Install tension devices
  • Remove dangerous cord loops
  •  
A potted plant adds a touch of greenery to a minimalist room with a window covered by a white blind.
A potted plant adds a touch of greenery to a minimalist room with a window covered by a white blind.

11. Door Safety Devices

  • Prevents finger/hand injuries
  • Use door stops and holders
  • Avoid small parts (choking hazard)
  •  
A sleek, modern door stop
A sleek, modern door stop

12. Communication Device

  • Use cordless/cell phone
  • Enables continuous supervision
  • Especially important near water
A hand holding a smartphone with a blank white screen while another finger hovers above it, poised to tap.
A hand holding a smartphone with a blank white screen while another finger hovers above it, poised to tap.

Summary: Child Safety Devices

Curious little explorer reaches for kitchen drawers protected by child safety locks.
Curious little explorer reaches for kitchen drawers protected by child safety locks.

Childproofing can be done affordably and effectively by homeowners. Choose sturdy, age-appropriate devices that match your lifestyle and consistently maintain them. Consult an InterNACHI inspector for additional safety recommendations during home inspections.

Remember: No safety device is completely childproof, but proper implementation can significantly reduce risks.