Baby Proofing

When you bring a new baby home, everyone says to enjoy it because time flies. Before you know it, your child or grandchild might be tottering around the house, but you haven't baby proofed yet.

Though a kid's curiosity is normal, it's essential to make sure babies are safe. According to the CDC, unintentional injury is a leading killer of kids between one and four years old.

It can seem overwhelming, but experts advise starting room-by-room with a checklist of what you need to proof and any supplies you'll need to buy.

Here are seven tips on how to get started.

1. Start with the bedroom your baby will be sleeping in. Ensure the crib is not placed near window pull-chords and device wires. In addition, keep the crib free of blankets, stuffed animals and crib bumpers.
2. Put dangers behind locks. Store poisons, household cleaners, medication, kitchen knives and scissors out of reach in places you can lock.
3. Big furniture can cause big problems. Large bookcases or televisions can topple over when pulled. Load shelves with heavier items on the bottom, and ensure all drawers stay fully closed. When possible, anchor televisions and bookcases to a wall.
4. Get on their level. At a grownup's height, it's easy to miss potential hazards. Crawl on your hands and knees throughout your home to look for hazards you missed.
5. Consider self-closing socket plugs since plug-in outlet covers can be a choking hazard.
6. Lock the oven door and cover stovetop controls with guards. Try to use only the back burners, if possible.
7. Keep an eye out. Even the best childproofing isn't perfect. There is no substitute for watchful supervision.

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