Child Proof Your Home

If you are a parent, grandparent, childcare provider or a friend of someone who has children, look around your home to see if it can be made safer for little ones.

Here is a checklist to get you started:

Cover all used or unused electrical outlets. Covers designed for outlets are available at hardware and household stores.

Pick up and put away small objects such as coins, small doll shoes, marbles and paper clips.

Never give a child under the age of 3 a balloon. Balloons are easy for small children to choke on.

Be sure the plants in your home are not poisonous. If you are uncertain about a certain type of plant, check with a local nursery or poison control center.

Look for any sharp edges on furniture, especially corners of glass-top tables and other pieces. Furniture should not be easily turned over.

Look for anything, such as electrical cords, loose rugs or toys, which could cause a fall.

Some things should be locked up and keep out of reach and sight:

1. Guns and ammunition, stored in separate locations.

2. Cleaning supplies, medication, shampoo and cosmetics.

3. Knives, tools, pencils, boxes with serrated edges and other   sharp objects.

4. Matches and cigarette lighters.

5. Plastic bags.