Children can be considered one of the most vulnerable to accidents. Their curious nature and boundless energy often lead them to places they should not be. Even if they’re under your watch, there can still be instances when they can get into trouble.
According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, injuries are the leading cause of death among children in the United States. This is why protecting your children and preventing them from getting injured is essential. One way you can do this is by childproofing your house.
But when it comes to childproofing, most people only think of the house’s interior. They childproof cabinets, put up gates and install safety covers on electrical outlets. While these are all important, you should also childproof your house’s exterior to protect your children further. Here are five ways to childproof your house’s exteriors:
- Install a fence
Childproofing your home is a top priority if you have young children. One way to do this is to install a fence around your property. A fence will help keep children safe by preventing them from wandering off the street or onto other properties.
Additionally, a fence can also help to keep out dangerous animals and strangers. Of course, choosing the right type of fence for your needs is essential. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of deer, you will need a taller fence to keep them out.
If security is a concern, you may opt for a fence with spikes or barbed wire. Whatever type of fence you choose, ensure it is installed correctly and that there are no gaps that children could squeeze through.
- Don’t forget the veranda
The steps leading up to the front door can be treacherous for small children, and the railing on the porch might not be as sturdy as it looks. If you’re worried about making your home safe for your kids, don’t forget to childproof the exterior.
One way to do this is to install a gate at the top and bottom of the stairs. This will prevent children from falling down the steps and getting injured. You should also ensure that the railing on your porch is secure and that there are no gaps where children could slip through.
Your veranda can also use balusters or spindles to fill in any gaps and prevent children from falling off the edge. You can look for some appropriate materials for balusters online to use for this home project. If you want to save money, there are suppliers that offer tough discounted steel. This way, you can get high-quality materials to childproof your house’s exteriors without spending much money.
- Be careful with outdoor furniture
When you have young children, it’s important to childproof your home to help prevent accidents. One way to do this is to be careful with outdoor furniture. Keep chairs and tables away from the edge of the patio or deck. Ensure that any sharp edges are covered.
If you have a pool, fence it in and keep chairs and lounge cushions away from the water’s edge. It’s also important to teach your children not to play on or around furniture, significantly if it’s elevated.
Help them understand that furniture is for grownups and that they could get hurt if they try to climb on it. Taking these precautions can help create a safe environment for your children to enjoy the outdoors.
- Keep an eye on the pool
Speaking of pools, it’s essential to take some safety precautions if you have one on your property. The worrying statistics about drowning in children should be enough to convince you to install a fence around your pool.
Make sure that the fence is at least four feet tall and that there are no gaps or holes that children could squeeze through. You should also have a self-closing and self-latching gate to keep children out when you’re not using the pool.
In addition to fencing in the pool, you should also keep an eye on it when children are around. Never leave them unattended, even for a moment. It only takes a few seconds for a child to drown, so it’s important to be vigilant.
- Be aware of your landscaping
Your landscaping can also pose a safety hazard for young children. For example, if you have a pond on your property, fence it in. Children could fall in and drown, so it’s important to take precautions.
In addition, you should also be aware of any poisonous plants that might be growing on your property. Some common ones include foxgloves, oleander, and rhododendrons. If you have any of these plants, keep them out of reach of children.
You should also avoid using pesticides and herbicides around children. If you must use them, follow the directions carefully and keep children and pets away from the area until the chemicals have dissipated.
Following these tips can help childproof your house’s exteriors and create a safe environment for your children. Don’t forget that it’s essential to be vigilant and always supervise your children when they’re outside. By taking some precautions, you can help keep them safe from harm.
Meta title: A Guide on Childproofing the Outside Premises of Your Home
meta desc: Childproofing your house’s interior is good, but it isn’t enough. You need to keep your kids safe on the outside too. Here are five ways to do just that.
