Childproofing cabinets, outlets and stairs for a toddler

Most child-safety devices are easy to find and fairly cheap. They only work if they're installed properly and put back after each use. No device is completely childproof. Some toddlers get past them or disable them.

Cabinets and drawers

• Put safety latches or locks on cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and bathroomsThey keep children away from medicines, laundry detergent, household cleaners, matches, lighters, knives and other sharp objects.
• Lock away products in child-resistant packaging tooThat kind of packaging often isn't childproof.
• Check that each latch holds up to a child's pulls and tugsAn adult should still be able to work it easily.
• Keep the Poison Control number, 800-222-1222, by the phone

Outlets, corners and doors

• Cover the outletsOutlet covers and plates protect against shock and electrocution. Check that a child can't pull them out easily, and that they're too big to choke on.
• Put bumpers on sharp furniture corners and the fireplace hearthCheck that they stay on securely.
• Put covers on doorknobs to rooms with hazardsThe cover should be sturdy but let an adult open the door quickly in an emergency.

Stairs and windows

• Put safety gates at the stairsAt the top of the stairs, use only a gate that screws into the wall. Check that a child can't dislodge it and that an adult can open and close it easily.
• Use a child safety gate, not a pet gateOlder gates with V-shaped openings can trap a child's head and neck.
• Use window guards or safety netting on windows, balconies, decks and landingsA window screen won't stop a child from falling out.
• Keep window openings to 4 inches or lessThat includes the space between window guard bars. Leave at least one window in each room that opens easily for escape in a fire.

Furniture and the bath

• Anchor the furniture that can tipChildren are killed and hurt when they climb onto, fall against or pull up on TV stands, shelves, bookcases, dressers, desks and chests. Anchoring furniture and TVs against tip-overs covers the steps.
• Make sure a freestanding range has its anti-tip bracketA tipped range can crush or scald a child.
• Stay within reach the whole time a baby is in the bathChildren can drown in moments.
• Keep hot water at 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lowerA water heater set there helps prevent burns, and anti-scald devices on faucets and showerheads add protection.