Family Safety Checklist at Home

for families and their nannies (babysitters, mannies and caregivers).

Kitchen:

• Store all matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
  
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of a small fire.  
  
• Never leave heaters, open fires or candles unattended.
  
• Never leave pots and pans on the stove whether you are cooking or not.
• Never leave the stove while you are cooking.
• If you have a free standing oven, bolt it to the wall to avoid tipping.
• Have a fire escape route and practice it.
• Make sure highchair is stable and fitted with a five point harness.
• Hot water should always be out of reach to avoid scalds.
• Unplug electrical items when not in use.
• Put a safety gate up at the kitchen area when cooking.
• Keep the dishwasher closed and locked to prevent poisoning or being trapped.
• Keep plastic bags out of the reach of children.
• Keep all cleaning products in a locked cabinet.
• Make sure the microwave is out of reach.

Bathroom and Laundry:

• Keep all medicine locked or up out of reach.
• Keep all poisonous substances in their original container.
• Remove electrical items from the bathroom.
• Use a non-skid mat in bathroom and in tub.
• Supervise children in the bathroom and laundry room at all times.
• Clean lint filters on dryers regularly.

Living Areas:

• Keep all blind cords out of reach to avoid strangulation.
• Make a separate play area for children.
• Read all labels on toys before allowing for play.
• Make sure all toys are in good working condition.
  
• Keep furniture away from the windows.
  
• Put up a safety gate at the bottom and top of stairs.
• Use a power strip instead of double adaptors.
• Use outlet plugs throughout home.

Bedroom:

• Do not use electric blankets on children.
• No pillows or stuffed animals in cribs.
• Mattress snugly fits to avoid entrapment.
• Children should wear pajamas made for fire risk.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Check all smoke alarm batteries throughout home.
• Put five point harnesses on baby while on changing table.  Do not leave baby unattended.

Garage and Sheds:

• Put locks on garage and shed doors to prevent access.
  
• Keep poisonous substances in their original containers.
• Keep all power tools locked in a safe place. 
  
• Keep small objects like screws and nails stored up high.
• Do not let children play around machinery.

Outside:

• Use a stroller with a five point harness.
• Make sure children have a separate play area.
• Keep a fence or gate around pools.
• Encourage children to play in the shade, wear hats and wear protective clothing.
  
• Children should wear the appropriate level of sunscreen for their age and exposure to the sun.
• Empty wading pools after use.
  
• Supervise children near dogs.
  
• Check for low branches on trees to avoid eye injuries. 
  
• Check garden for poisonous plants.

Balconies:

• Do not use a balcony for a play area.
  
• Keep children on balconies supervised at all times.
• Use heavy furniture rather than light furniture to avoid movement.