The more mobile children are, the more dangers they will find. Everything is new and exciting to them, and they may pick up any visible object, venture into off-limit spaces and grab onto almost any surface. Although they can understand why some actions and items are dangerous, their curiosity usually gets the best of them. Therefore, it’s best to take adequate safety measures to prevent accidents and tragedies. Make your home childproof by doing the following but remember they do not eliminate the need for adult supervision!
✓ 1. Secure Off-Limit Areas with Gates
Cut off access to areas that can pose danger to children, for example, bathrooms, kitchen and laundry/utility rooms, with safety gates. Whether you choose a hardware- or pressure-mounted safety gate, they are an easy way to make your home safer for young children. Choose a model that has vertical slats or a fine mesh screen to prevent climbing or trapped fingers.
Image: Regalo
✓ 2. Cover Electrical Outlets
Children just seem to love fiddling with electrical outlets and putting their fingers into them. Maybe it’s because they look like little faces waiting to be fed something. To prevent this from happening, childproof electrical outlets with outlet plugs or caps, sliding covers, or tamper-resistant outlets.
Image: Acritica
✓ 3. Enclose Balcony to Prevent Falls
The gaps between balcony railings, climbable objects nearby and horizontal slats can be gravely hazardous for children. Avoid any mishaps by securing your balcony with additional safety installations, such as Glass Curtains® or Ziptrak®.
Image: Glass Curtains
Glass Curtains® is an innovative curtain system that uses tempered glass panels to enclose balconies so that families can enjoy their living spaces safely. This patented design is effective in reducing outside noise and keeping interiors dry even under heavy rainy conditions. It also comes with a sidelock system for extra safety measure.
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Glass Curtains® Innovative Features
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- Sturdy Bottom-Weighted Glass Panels
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- Reduce Noise and Watertight
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- Flexible Flying Door™ Opening System
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- Maintenance-Free Teflon Transport System
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- Custom Crafted to Fit All Homes
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Image: Ziptrak
Ziptrak® is a sophisticated track guided blind system designed to provide protection from falls and other undesirable elements, such as rain, wind, haze, insects and heat. Its spring-balanced system is one of the smoothest in the market. The design grips tight to the vertical tracks so there will be no rattling even in the strongest winds. For a full secure hold, the blind can be locked when fully down.
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Ziptrak® Innovative Features
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- Protection from Heat, Rain, Wind
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- Antibacterial and Fire Retardant Fabric
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- Simple and Smooth to Operate
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- Motorisation Option Available
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- Versatile Installation Options
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✓ 4. Install Window Guards
Don’t forget the windows too. Shield children with window guards that are strong enough to prevent falling and designed to be removed quickly in case of fire.
Image: Lifespan
✓ 5. Pack Away Hazardous Items
Sometimes we forget that many everyday objects, such as soft toys, packaging, cords and blinds, increase the risk of suffocation. Remove or lock away items that could be dangerous, including cleaning products and medications. Pad sharp furniture corners with corner protectors. Also, empty bathtubs and buckets of water immediately after use.
Image: Lambert Foundation
✓ 6. Safety Around Fires, Burns and Scalds
For overall fire safety at home, it is essential to have at least one working smoke alarm that is tested regularly. Keep children away from hot surfaces and things that can burn, such as stoves, ovens, microwaves, lighters and matches.
Image: Dreambaby
Disclaimer: This checklist does not include all the possible hazards that exist in high-rise homes. It is meant to be one of many resources you can use to protect your children.
In case of emergency, please contact:
Police / Ambulance: 999 / 112
Fire and Rescue Department: 994 / 112
National Poison Centre: +604 657 0099 or 1800 88 8099 (Mondays-Fridays); 012 430 9499 (After office hours)
