An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure!

As any parent will tell you, you can't keep children from climbing, exploring, and discovering new things. Your house may look safe, but chances are, there is some household danger hiding and waiting for your curious, active or rambunctious child to come along. The Bryn Mawr Hospital/duPont Children's Health Program is dedicated to helping you keep your children healthy and safe all year long. Below are some useful tips to help make your home as safe as possible for the little ones in your life.

Preventing Burns:

• Set the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees or lower.  A child can be scalded in 30 seconds if the temperature is only five degrees higher.
• When cooking, always turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
• Don't drink hot beverages with a child in your lap.
• Remove your child's safety seat or stroller from the hot sun.  Tuck in the seatbelts' metal latch plates in the seats on a hot day.
  

Preventing Choking:

• Cut up foods that are firm and round such as hot dogs, grapes and raw vegetables.
• Watch out for hard candy, nuts, popcorn, and spoonfuls of peanut butter.
• Don't allow small children to play with toys designed for older children.
• Check under furniture and between cushions for marbles, coins, pen caps, etc.
• Keep uninflated balloons away from all young children.
• Don't let your child play on bean bag chairs made with small foam pellets

Preventing Cuts:

• Keep knives, forks, scissors and other sharp tools in a drawer with a safety latch.
• Put glass objects and cups in a high cabinet.
• Keep razors and nail scissors stored in a safe place with a latch if possible.
• Keep recycled glass in a safe place.
  

Preventing Electric Shock:

• Cover all unused outlets with safety caps.
• Unplug all kitchen appliances when not in use.
• Position televisions and stereo equipment against walls to keep hands out of back surfaces.
• Check electronic toys for wear and tear.
  

Preventing Poisoning:

• Store all medications in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave vitamin bottles or aspirin bottles unattended.
• Don’t leave alcoholic drinks where children can reach them.
• Have paint tested for lead if you live in an older house.