Things to do:
- Install smoke detectors
- Keep Poisons Hotline Number on fridge Tel. 131 126
- Remove small objects within baby’s reach
- Keep electrical cords out of reach
- Remove or tie up all curtain or blinds cords to keep out of reach of baby
- Have toys that meet Australian Safety Standards. Check any loose parts, strings and cords
- Vacuum regularly and pick things up from the floor
- Ensure all windows and doors are secure
- Use baby proof gates on stairs and ensure baby cannot fall through banisters
- Do not have anything under windows that baby could climb on
- Use baby proof latches on cupboard doors
- Store medicines on a high shelf out of reach
- Store plastic bags out of reach
- Cleaning products to be stored out of reach, high shelf or cupboard with baby proof latch
- Pan handles turned away from front of cooktop
- Keep baby away from oven door
- Remove fridge magnets as they could be a choking hazard
- Ensure baby cannot climb over any balcony
Living Room
- Place dummy plugs in all electrical sockets
- Remove tablecloths as they can be pulled down
- Remove light weight furniture that baby could pull down e.g. CD racks
- Fix plastic corner pieces to sharp edges of furniture
- Move sharp or breakable objects to a higher place
- Place guard around heater/fireplace
Bathroom
- Pack medicines, razors, creams in a drawer or cupboard fitted with baby proof latch
- Shower unit has safety glass or Perspex
- Use non-slip mat in shower/bath
- Fit guards to taps to prevent children turning them on
- Have licenced plumber check temperature of thermostatic valve to avoid scalding
- Always supervise children in a bath
Garden/Outside
- Ensure pool has Australian Standard approval fence with child resistant gate
- Have resuscitation guidelines and information displayed at all times should emergency occur and if CPR is required
- Check there are no gaps in fences and that side gates are locked
- Lock garden equipment and pesticides in a secure shed or storage area
Choosing a Car Seat
- It must comply with the Australian Standard and be marked accordingly
- Ensure it is the right size for the weight and height of baby and to fit snugly in the back seat
- Never use a car seat that is older than 6 years or has been in an accident
- Never use a car seat unless you know its history
- Never use a car seat in the front seat
- Once your child has outgrown the car seat, move to the next level of restraint
- A child is too tall for a booster seat once the level of their eyes is above the level of the back of the booster seat.