Read the first part of this series here.
Balcony
If you have open balconies, make sure the railings are of such height that it would not be possible for anyone, especially children to topple over. The gap between the rails should not be large enough for a child to pass through. Never keep any furniture on the balcony that could be used as a platform for a child to climb up and look over the balcony.
If you live in a duplex apartment and there are stairs leading to the upstairs portion, see that the steps are kept clean and dry. The stairs should have sturdy railings on either side for support.
For homes with kids and pets
Fix a gate to the main door such that small kids and toddlers or pets do not stray out of the door in case it is accidentally left open.
If your rooms have plug points (sockets) that are closer to the floor level, plug them with Baby Safe plug covers that are available in stores.
Never keep glassware and medicines within reach of the kids. Ensure there are no sharp-edged furniture or any gadgets that could potentially cause injuries to kids. With kids around you need to seriously baby-proof your house. The floors should be kept spotlessly clean, free of any insect droppings, if there is a toddler in the house. Children have a natural curiosity for things. There have been cases where the toddlers have picked up and put lizard droppings into their mouths. Sometimes, this could be dangerous.
For homes with the elderly
If there are elderly people with some congenital disability or due to old age at home, ensure that your furniture is so arranged that it provides for easy navigation. Hand-rails in crucial areas like the commode and bathing area is recommended for the elderly and infirm. The rooms should be well lit and remove rugs, mats or carpets that have a tendency to slip.
Despite all the preventive measures and your best intentions, accidents can still happen and these do happen when you become careless or complacent. Instill safety consciousness in the children and elderly and you can prevent major mishaps. As a rule, keep all emergency phone numbers handy to seek help immediately should an unfortunate incident happen.
Stanley Varghese for IndiaProperty.com
Image: https://pixabay.com/en/cat-walking-stairs-steps-face-1846356/
By: indiaproperty.com
