8 Most Dangerous Home Hazards for Toddlers

Having a baby can be a wonderful feeling for the soon-to-be parents. However, the challenges may come when trying to keep your soon-to-be toddler safe. There are many dangerous home hazards for toddlers that you must look out for, especially when raising a toddler that is eager to explore their curiosity around the house. Here are the eight most dangerous home hazards for toddlers that you might surprisingly find in the comfort of your own home.

Sharp Objects

Having sharp objects around the house is inevitable. They are located in almost every part of our home. However, taking note of how reachable these home hazards may be for the young toddler(s) is important. That’s why it’s always good to maintain knives, forks, or other pointy items out of the reach of children. You also want to make sure that if you have a dishwasher, to baby proof that and all other appliances, and that is your safest bet. Point sharp knives and forks downwards, and avoid adding soap to the dishwasher, at least until it is time to turn on the dishwasher. Items that are made out of glass are also dangerous since they might fall to the ground and shatter into sharp pieces. Always keep on the lookout for these dangerous child hazards.

Dangerous Chemicals

Let’s face it. It’s not that easy to avoid having chemicals around the house unless you plan on going 100% organic. Even so, this does not guarantee that your toddler might not have a reaction to the organic product. Most of these dangerous chemicals are home hazards for toddlers that can be found in the kitchen or bathroom such as detergents and dish soaps. However, other areas to look out for can also be the garage, basement, or stock room since they might include paint, car liquids such as oil bottles, or house cleaning supplies. Secure the top covers, and maintain the products out of reach. These chemicals can either irritate your toddler’s skin when getting in contact with them, or be dangerous if inhaled.

Choking Hazards

Believe it or not, your view from the top is not the same as a crawler’s view, in this case your toddler. Therefore, it’s important to keep debris, dirt, or other nasty scum away from the ground. Although, it may be a bit more work to sweep and mop more frequently, it will be for the safety of your child. Anything that a toddler may find while crawling on free space will be potential choking hazard if swallowed. You never know what you might find on the ground until you sweep. You may be surprised at all of the items you may find such as loose screws, pieces of plastic, buttons, pennies, or other small parts that your baby might want to nibble on or eat.

Stairs & Windows

Windows are probably the scariest child hazards to have around babies. Toddlers are at the age where they want to explore their curiosity. It’s safer to avoid a tragedy by keeping windows closed and locked. If you need to open the windows, then try opening the top part only instead. If not, then avoid opening the bottom part of the window any more than 3-5 inches. This will prevent your toddler from being able to crawl out. Stairs may also be a home hazard if they are slippery and dangerous for toddlers that are unable to keep their balance. Watch out for railings since the toddler may also get stuck or fall through the open spaces. Placing a baby gate will prevent toddlers from going up and down the stairs.

Electrical Outlets

The list of how dangerous electrical outlets are is endless. Many retail stores sell outlet covers and protectors that prevent babies from inserting their fingers into the outlets. Not protecting your child from these dangerous outlets can cause your child to get shocked or electrocuted if playing nearby. Extensions and loose wiring can also be a child hazard if your toddler decides to play with them. The best way to keep these wires away from toddlers is by hanging them up high towards the ceiling, tightening them together behind the furniture, or stapling them/taping them as closest to the floor edges as possible and away from the children. Also, make sure the wires are in good condition and not pealing off. Any damaged wiring can create sparks and be potential fire hazards if not maintained correctly.

Doors & Furniture

Believe it or not, doors can also be dangerous home hazards. Toddlers can get their fingers entrapped in door hinges. If possible, keep the door fully open or fully closed and locked! By keeping the door fully opened, you will prevent the child from playing with the hazard in the first place. Having the door closed and locked will keep the child from trying to open the door or even entering a room in which they’re not allowed to go into. Big items such as furniture and appliances can easily tip over if not well grounded. Children might also want to stand and hold onto chairs, tables, televisions, and other items that could tip over and fall on them. Plus, remember to also baby proof sharp corners. There’s nothing wrong with allowing children to explore their own home, but keep in mind which places is better to keep them away from, at least for the first few months that they’re learning to walk.

Playful Pets

Our pets are pretty much part of our family as well. We tend to not want to treat them as animals, ironically. However, as much as we want to humanize them, they are still hunters by nature. Regardless of the breed of your pet, it’s important to understand that they too have emotions and mood swings. If your toddler rubs them the wrong way, they might be placed in a very risky situation. Try allowing your pet to get used to having a new family member after introducing your toddler. In the meantime, don’t leave your toddler alone in the same room as your pet just to be on the safe side. Dogs and cats can also get jealous when they feel that their lovely space is being threatened by another specie. Once you have found a comfort level for both pet and baby, do not allow your child to overly bother your pet either. Even the gentlest pets have their limits. Instead, start training your pet to respect and protect your toddler early on to prevent any dangerous situation from occurring and vice versa.

Health Hazards

This last one may sound like common sense, but not everyone may pay close attention to these health hazards. Therefore, do not dismiss any red flags in regards to the health of your baby. Anything from someone smoking inside the house to letting the cold air come inside the house through an open door and/or window may create health hazards, because your child may end up having respiratory problems or worst. Germs can easily be spread as well, so you may want to make sure that those that come in contact with your child are not sick. Plus, be aware of those living in the household, other incoming visitors, as well as babysitters. Be alert on the safety of your baby at all times. The changes of behavior and mood of your baby are more than enough signs that something isn’t right. Follow your sixth sense at all times! The health and safety of your baby should be your number one priority.

With that being said, having a child can be the most exciting moment for a soon-to-be parent. However, there is nothing wrong with taking extra precautions for the safety of your own child. Be cautious of all these home hazards previously mentioned. Are there any other child hazards that you can think of? What steps will you need to take to provide a safe environment for your toddler? Give these questions a thought and provide the safest home for the child that no one else will love and protect like you.

Dangerous Child Hazards to Avoid – Kid Safety Tips