Rental Advice

from Winnipeg Renters Guide - December 3, 2021

Rental Tips

ChIldproofIng challenges

by Kim carlton

Having a baby is an exciting, but a nerve-wracking experience. Here are some strategies to help you keep your home safe and sound.

• Make sure your electrical outlets are covered. There are many kinds of outlet covers – choose the one that is right for you. • Confirm that you have reliable smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure that the batteries are working. • Use doorknob covers on doors to non-childproofed areas (like the bathrooms and laundry room). Baby gates are also an effective solution for keeping kids in or out of a room. • Don’t use toys or pillows in the crib, especially with young babies — your baby could suffocate.

Never use an electric blanket for a child (could cause a fire). • Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub. Drowning can occur in seconds, and mere inches of water pose a risk. • Make sure your bathtub has a non-skid mat or pads to avoid slips. You can use a baby tub inside the bathtub — one with baby slings are especially helpful with infants. • Lock up all medications, alcoholic beverages, chemicals and cleaning products. Make sure matches and lighters are out of reach. Use cabinet locks to secure these items. • Make sure cords for blinds are not tied together at the bottom (this is a strangulation hazard). • Make sure knives and sharp items are in an area where kids can’t access them. • Check toys for broken parts/ bits that are a choking hazard or sharp. Keep small toys for older children (like figurines, game board pieces and small building blocks) away from your baby.

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