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.