Home Safety For Families With Small Children
When you have little ones at home, every corner of the house can feel like an adventure waiting to happen—and not always in a safe way. At Happy House Handyman, we know how important it is to make your home not just comfortable, but safe for your children. That’s why we’ve put together this easy-to-follow Home Safety Checklist for families with small kids.
🔌 Electrical Safety
Curious hands and outlets don’t mix. Protect your children by:
Installing outlet covers on all unused outlets
Securing loose cords or using cord shorteners
Keeping lamps and electronics out of reach
Checking night-lights to ensure they don’t overheat or pose a choking hazard
🚪 Doors & Windows
Stairs, windows, and off-limits rooms are common problem areas.
Add safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs
Use doorknob covers or locks on laundry, garage, or bathroom doors
Install window locks or stops so windows only open a few inches
Switch to cordless blinds or secure cords out of reach
🏠 Living Areas
Living rooms and play areas should be cozy, not risky.
Anchor TVs, dressers, and bookshelves to prevent tipping
Keep small items (coins, batteries, magnets) out of reach
Add corner guards to sharp furniture edges
Remove or secure throw rugs to prevent slips and trips
🍴 Kitchen
The heart of the home can also be a danger zone.
Use stove knob covers and cook on back burners when possible
Lock up cleaning products, knives, and small appliances
Store plastic bags and choking hazards high and away
Keep the dishwasher locked and detergent pods out of reach
🛁 Bathroom
Water and slippery surfaces need extra caution.
Install toilet locks
Use nonslip mats in the tub and on the floor
Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C) or lower to prevent scalds
Lock away medications, razors, and cosmetics
🛏 Bedrooms
Bedrooms should be a safe and restful place.
Choose a crib that meets current safety standards (no drop sides, safe slat spacing)
Keep pillows, blankets, bumpers, and stuffed animals out of cribs
Secure baby monitor cords well out of reach
Anchor dressers and changing tables to the wall
🚗 Garage, Yard & Outdoors
Don’t forget the areas outside your main living space.
Lock away tools, lawn equipment, and chemicals
Fence pools with self-closing, self-latching gates
Check swing sets and play equipment for stability and sharp edges
Store bikes and toys neatly to avoid trip hazards
🔥 Fire & Emergency Preparedness
Finally, always be prepared for the unexpected.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it
Create and practice a family escape plan
Post emergency numbers where everyone can see them
✅ Handy Tip
Try a “crawl test”—get down on your hands and knees and look around from your child’s perspective. You’ll be surprised at the hazards you notice that you might miss standing up.
At Happy House Handyman, we believe a safe home is a happy home. If you’d like help childproofing, installing safety gates, anchoring furniture, or making your home safer for your family, give us a call. We’ll take care of the hard work so you can focus on making memories.