Ensuring a safe home environment for children is a priority for families across the Emerald Coast in Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, thriving communities, and family-friendly atmosphere, this region offers an idyllic place to raise children. However, creating a home that is safe for children requires intentional planning and ongoing diligence. From safeguarding furniture to addressing potential hazards, childproofing a home is an essential step for any family.
Secure Furniture and Appliances
Unsecured furniture is one of the most common household dangers for children. Dressers, bookshelves, and entertainment centers can topple over if climbed on by a curious child. Securing these items to walls using brackets or anchors is a simple but critical step in childproofing.
Televisions, particularly flat screens, should also be properly mounted or secured to prevent tipping. Appliances like ovens and refrigerators should have safety locks installed to restrict access. Additionally, cords from blinds or curtains should be kept out of reach to prevent strangulation hazards.
Create Safe Zones
Designating specific areas of the home as “safe zones” for children can simplify the process of keeping them safe. These zones should be free of sharp corners, breakable objects, and small items that could be choking hazards. Adding soft mats or carpets can provide a safe surface for toddlers and young children.
In coastal homes, where open floor plans are common, baby gates can be used to limit access to less-safe areas like staircases, kitchens, or rooms with heavy furniture. Gates should meet current safety standards and be securely installed to prevent tipping.
Water Safety Inside and Outside the Home
For families on the Emerald Coast, water safety is a particularly important concern, both indoors and outdoors. Bathtubs, toilets, and even buckets of water can pose drowning risks for young children. Installing toilet locks and keeping bathroom doors closed can help minimize risks.
Outdoor areas with pools require special attention. Pool fences with self-closing, self-latching gates are an essential safeguard, and pool alarms can add an extra layer of protection. For homes near the coast, secure access points leading to beaches or waterfront areas to ensure children cannot wander off unsupervised.
Electrical Safety
Electric outlets and cords are another potential hazard for children. Outlet covers or tamper-resistant receptacles can prevent children from inserting objects into outlets. Loose cords should be bundled and kept out of reach to prevent accidental tripping or pulling of heavy items.
Homes in the Emerald Coast region, where storms and power outages are common, should also have surge protectors and grounded outlets to enhance overall electrical safety. Parents should take care to keep backup power sources like generators out of children’s reach as well.
Prevent Falls
Falls are a leading cause of injury among young children. In homes with stairs, installing sturdy gates at both the top and bottom of staircases can help prevent accidents. Windows should be equipped with locks or guards to prevent children from falling out.
Balconies and decks, common features in many Emerald Coast homes, require special attention. Railings should be secure and have no gaps wider than four inches to prevent children from slipping through. Adding plexiglass or netting to balcony railings can provide an additional layer of safety.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety
Fire and carbon monoxide hazards are present in every home, and taking preventive measures is crucial. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms should be installed on every level of the home and tested regularly. Fire extinguishers should be accessible, and families should create and practice a fire escape plan.
For homes with fireplaces or wood stoves, safety gates can prevent children from getting too close to hot surfaces. Parents should also ensure that matches and lighters are stored out of reach.
Manage Toxic Substances
The average home contains a surprising number of toxic substances, from cleaning supplies to medications and personal care products. These items should always be stored out of reach, ideally in locked cabinets.
Emerald Coast homeowners who use pest control products or fertilizers should be especially cautious. These substances should be stored in secure outdoor sheds or garages and clearly labeled to avoid confusion.
Even seemingly harmless products, like essential oils or certain houseplants, can pose risks to children. Parents should familiarize themselves with common household toxins and take steps to eliminate or secure them.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Childproofing a home is not a one-time task—it requires ongoing maintenance and regular inspections. As children grow and their abilities change, new hazards may arise. Parents should periodically reassess their home’s safety features and make necessary updates.
For Emerald Coast homeowners, this might include inspecting outdoor spaces for storm damage, ensuring fences and gates are intact, and checking that pool safety measures are functioning properly. Keeping up with regular home maintenance is key to ensuring a safe environment for children.
Find Your Family’s Perfect Home on the Emerald Coast
Creating a safe and nurturing environment for your children starts with finding the right home. Whether you’re searching for a cozy family retreat or a spacious property near the Emerald Coast’s stunning beaches, contact the Marie Babin Team today to take the first step toward finding your dream home.
*Header photo courtesy of the Marie Babin Team
