Most parents know the usual ways to childproof a home. These include outlet covers, anchoring furniture, and safety gates. But some tricks for keeping kids safe around appliances aren’t as well known. So, what are these lesser-known tips to help your little ones out of trouble around household gadgets?
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Anti-tip brackets for large appliances
Installing anti-tip brackets for heavy appliances, like fridges and stoves, works well. This method stops heavy appliances from toppling if a toddler climbs on them. It’s simple and effective. To install this, you need brackets. They must attach to the wall behind the appliance to create a secure hold.
High and Locked Cabinets for Small Appliances
Parents must be careful with items like toasters and blenders. These gadgets are handy for adults. But, they pose serious risks to children. High cabinets will keep small appliances away from kids. That’s good news.
To execute this, you need to evaluate your kitchen storage and use the cabinets that are safest. After the test, you can store your appliances out of reach. Or, you can buy child-proof locks to secure the cabinets.
Safety Guards for Stove and Oven Knobs
Have you noticed that knobs on stoves and ovens attract the attention of children like magnets? Parents must know that little fingers find these knobs. This can cause accidents, such as burns or fires. Safety guards over the stove and oven knobs prevent kids from turning them on.
Securing the dishwasher door
Dishwashers are a hidden hazard when childproofing. Parents must know the dishwasher door can be dangerous. It is unsafe to open it while the machine is running or filled with hot, soapy water.
Also, it’s no surprise that kids love playing with water, so dishwashers will naturally grab their attention. They’ll end up sticking things in there that definitely don’t belong. If that happens and things get jammed, call in the pros for dishwasher repair. They know how to fix jams without damaging the dishwasher or causing more problems.
To secure this appliance, use locks designed for dishwashers. Or, always keep the door closed and locked. Parents can lock it. They can also explain to older siblings the dangers. This creates awareness around the appliance.
Using Cord Shorteners or Organizers
One of the overlooked hazards around appliances is electrical cords. Kids often find dangling cords irresistible to tug on, which can lead to dangerous situations. Children pulling on cords can topple appliances or cause electric shocks. Using cord shorteners or organizers to wrap up excess cord length can help prevent these risks. Additionally, securing cords out of reach or against the wall helps keep them safely tucked away.
Installing Appliance Locks
Many parents lock their cabinets. But, fewer lock their appliances. Appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves often have child locks. They prevent kids from using them. These appliance-specific locks can keep kids safe. They stop them from opening dangerous appliances, like a microwave with hot food.
Teaching Appliance Safety Early
Childproofing is essential. But, it’s also vital to teach kids about appliance safety as soon as they can understand. It’s helpful to tell kids why some appliances are off-limits. Showing them the dangers of misuse can instill safe habits for life. Simple explanations can help. Ovens are hot. Dishwashers use strong chemicals. These can reduce curiosity-driven accidents.
Using Appliance Shields for Extra Protection
Appliance shields can add protection, especially for the stove and oven. Heat-resistant shields or covers for stove burners and oven doors can prevent burns if children touch them. Some shields are also transparent, allowing you to cook while keeping your kids safe from the heat.
It’ll take some effort, perhaps even planning, but it’ll be time well spent. Kids may not know better. They might pull on doors, push buttons, or try to climb on them. This can cause accidents like tipping over or burns. As a parent, it’s better to be prepared than to deal with surprises.
