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Baby Room Safety
Outlet covers are a must to prevent shock and electrocution. If you use outlet plugs, make sure they are UL-listed and cannot be easily removed or choked on. Because it is so easy to misuse these plugs (take one out to plug something in, then never replace it), a better choice might be to install outlet plates that require a left-sliding motion to plug in a cord. If you won't need the outlet, replace the face with a blank plate. If you are concerned about your child pulling a cord out of the outlet, look for outlet and plug hoods that prevent this.
Window-blind cords should be cut if they are looped, to prevent strangulation (remove the buckle as well); put safety tassels on the cut ends. Use cord cleats high on the window frame to take up excess cord. If you are buying new window coverings, inform the salesperson that you would like to have safety options on the cords.
L-brackets, available at hardware stores, will secure tall or tip-prone dressers and bookcases to the wall -- essential if you have a "climber." If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, look for a hinged model.
A baby monitor will alert you when a sleeping baby awakens or otherwise needs you. Monitors in which both the base unit and the receiver can be powered by either household current or a battery give you the most flexibility.
A cordless phone is an invaluable safety device, as it allows you to supervise your child even when callers beckon.
If you are concerned about a product's safety -- especially if you are buying a used item -- the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission lists all product recalls since 1994 on their Web site at www.cpsc.gov; or call (800) 638-2772 for recorded messages or a live operator.
Window-blind cords should be cut if they are looped, to prevent strangulation (remove the buckle as well); put safety tassels on the cut ends. Use cord cleats high on the window frame to take up excess cord. If you are buying new window coverings, inform the salesperson that you would like to have safety options on the cords.
L-brackets, available at hardware stores, will secure tall or tip-prone dressers and bookcases to the wall -- essential if you have a "climber." If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, look for a hinged model.
A baby monitor will alert you when a sleeping baby awakens or otherwise needs you. Monitors in which both the base unit and the receiver can be powered by either household current or a battery give you the most flexibility.
A cordless phone is an invaluable safety device, as it allows you to supervise your child even when callers beckon.
If you are concerned about a product's safety -- especially if you are buying a used item -- the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission lists all product recalls since 1994 on their Web site at www.cpsc.gov; or call (800) 638-2772 for recorded messages or a live operator.
