A Simple Room-by-Room Checklist:
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Nursery:
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Crib meets current safety standards (no drop-side rails).
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Firm mattress with a tight-fitting sheet. No bumpers, pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals.
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Baby monitor cords are out of reach (shorten with a cord shortener).
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Living Room:
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Anchor furniture (bookshelves, dressers, TVs) to the wall.
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Cover all electrical outlets.
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Use cordless blinds or wrap cords high out of reach.
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Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
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Remove any small objects from the floor and low shelves.
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Kitchen:
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Install cabinet and drawer locks.
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Keep all cleaning supplies, chemicals, and sharp objects in a locked cabinet, preferably up high.
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Use a stove knob cover.
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Never leave hot food or liquids on the edge of a counter.
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Bathroom:
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Keep all medications, vitamins, and toiletries in a locked cabinet.
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Set water heater to 120°F (49°C) to prevent scalding.
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Never leave a baby unattended in the bath, even for a second.
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Beyond the Physical: The Hidden Danger of Parental Exhaustion
The most important safety tool you have is your own alertness. Exhaustion is a silent saboteur.