Even though we're just passing through these areas, they should be an important focus when childproofing your home.
- Gates are one of the most important childproofing products for homes with stairs. After reading the below, click through to our Gate information page to learn more about the different types available.
- Be sure to install a Swing hardware mount gate or a Dual-Mode gate at the top of each stairway to prevent falls. Never use a Walk-Through pressure mount or Security pressure mount gate at the top of the stairs. A child’s body weight can easily dislodge a pressure mount gate causing both to fall down the stairs.
- A child only needs to fall from a few stairs to be seriously injured, so be sure to use a gate at the bottom of the stairs as well. It's fine to teach children how to climb the stairs, but they should only do so when an adult is present, every step of the way.
- Cover all outlets to prevent an electrical shock.
- Hallways often have doorways to closets that may contain deceptively dangerous items, such as dry cleaning bags which pose a suffocation hazard, cleaning supplies, medicines and more. Be sure to properly lock these closets and to restrict access to other out-of-bounds areas, such as laundry rooms or basements.
- If there is a balcony on the second floor of your home and the banisters are spaced too widely apart (more than 3"), be sure to cover the balcony to prevent falls.
