How to child-proof your condo

Condominiums may be especially popular among the young professional and retired set, but one of the best aspects about them is their potential to appeal to just about anyone. And yes, that includes parents with babies and young children. In some ways - the lack of in-home stairs, for example - condos are especially well suited to child safety. There are plenty of other steps parents can take to child-proof their condo and make it even safer for their kids.

Windows

Given that many condos are up a few stories, it is especially important to make sure your windows are safe. If they can be opened more than 4 inches, they pose risks to kids. You can buy products that limit how far your windows can be opened. Products called window guards, which are designed to prevent children from falling out of windows, also are available. If you have blinds on your windows, be sure the cords are out of reach of children.

Outlets

Electrical outlets intrigue kids of just about every age. Wherever you have them in your condo or loft, your kids will find them and try to stick into them their fingers, silverware or anything else they get their hands on. Investing in some outlet covers is a good idea. There are a variety of types available, depending on how often you use the outlets.

Child locks

Kids have a habit of getting into cupboards, drawers and other places they should not. In some cases, it is simply annoying when they get into something and make a mess. But it is far more than annoying if they get into your medicine drawer or the cupboard where you keep your cleaning supplies. That is dangerous. Install child locks on anything you do not want your kids to get into, including the toilet.

Kitchen gates

If you live in a condo, you probably do not have to worry about a gate that prevents your kids from falling down the stairs. But consider buying a gate that keeps them out of your kitchen, especially when you are cooking. Many gates are easy to set up and take down, and given the open layout of many condos, you will still be able to see your kids, even if they are locked out of the kitchen.

Furniture

Make sure your furniture is stable, especially if it is heavy. It is ideal if you can set the room up in such a way that you can anchor tipsy furniture to the wall.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Install smoke detectors in every room in your condo. It is also a good idea to have at least one carbon monoxide detector.

Based on the article by Andy Ashbury.