Summertime is a fun time for kids, but it also means that children will be spending more time at home. Hollywood schools usually have systems for making sure that classrooms and common spaces at school are safe for kids. Now that the kids are home from school, it’s important that your home is also safe for them. While you may have childproofed your home at some point, you may want to take a few extra precautions at this time of year to keep your kids safe:
1) Keep chemicals and any toxic materials well out of reach.
Small children can easily become interested in colorful bottles or boxes that contain poison. Make sure that these items are kept not only on high shelves, but also in locked cabinets or cupboards that are not easily accessible. Items such as firecrackers, which may appeal to older children, should especially be stored carefully in a locked area that only you have the key to. Be especially careful about things you don’t think twice about. For example, colorful laundry tabs can look like candy to children and can pose a serious poisoning risk.
2) Keep your home safe from fire.
Check your fire and smoke detectors to make sure that they are working and make sure that you have fire extinguishers in good condition next to your grill and in your kitchen. Check the wiring on appliances that you use every day. Sometimes, wires can become worn or cords can become frayed without us being aware of it. Never use multiple extension cords for an extended period of time or run extension cords under rugs.
If you use candles for home decor, make sure that you never leave candles unattended with children; they pose a serious burn injury risk. Each year, children in Hollywood suffer serious burn injuries because they come in contact with decorative candles.
3) Reduce the risk of electrical burns.
If you have small children at home, install childproof outlet covers over your electrical outlets. Make sure that if your child is at home any at-risk appliances – such as the stove – are not easily accessible.
4) Check to make sure that your child care services are safe.
Will you be relying on childcare services or caregivers to keep your child occupied while you work? Check references and recommendations carefully to make sure that you entrust your child with someone who has a good track record for safety.
Has your child been injured by the reckless or negligent actions of someone else? You may have a claim that lets you seek compensation so that you can afford the best quality care for your child. To find out how Florida laws may protect you and to learn how you can take advantage of these laws to seek compensation, do not hesitate to contact Flaxman Law Group. Your first consultation with our South Florida law firm comes with no commitment and is absolutely free, so you have nothing to lose by learning the facts about your situation.