On average, parents spend $443 to childproof their homes. Home automation and security devices enhance safety and enable homeowners to keep tabs on their children at all hours.
Below, we outline several smart devices parents can use to create a safe and secure home environment for children.
1. Smart Locks
Install smart locks to prevent children from entering hazardous areas, such as medicine and liquor cabinets, utility closets, toilets or fireplaces. Smart locks enable parents to block off areas that may pose health and security risks to children.
There are some tips to keep in mind:
- Confirm that locks are secure at all times.
- Utilize mobile devices to receive an immediate notification when a restricted area has been accessed.
- If an access code is required for your lock, set a secure, unique code.
- If your smart lock requires altering a door’s locking mechanism, use a trusted security expert to ensure that the lock is installed correctly.
2. Video Surveillance
Install surveillance cameras to keep tabs on your child. Video surveillance eliminates the need to physically enter the nursery unless necessary and enables parents to remotely verify that their child is safe. Know immediately when something is awry and create peace of mind with proper camera installation:
- Conceal power cords with covers.
- Set triggers to program recordings to start when movement is detected.
- Place cameras at least three feet away from the crib.
- Position cameras up high for an optimal vantage point.
3. Image Sensors
Leverage image sensors to continually monitor activity around the home and keep track of your child’s whereabouts. Image sensors can allow you to:
- Receive mobile notifications when your child exits the crib or enters an area that is off limits.
- Immediately address unusual movement in the nursery.
- See images when another device is triggered, such as an alarm on a door.
Additional Safety Tips
In addition to the above tips, consider the following precautions to ensure a safe environment for your child at all times:
- Cover electrical outlets. Prevent children from tampering with hazardous outlets.
- Place cords and power strips out of reach. Unplug appliances when not in use, and store them higher up to prevent children from becoming tangled.
- Secure heavy furniture to the wall (e.g. TVs, chairs, tables, desks or drawers). Use restraint brackets to prevent furniture from falling.
- Take an infant CPR course. Learn critical procedures for life-threatening emergencies.
- Use toilet locks to keep little hands out of unsanitary areas.
- Fasten a stove guard, knob covers, and appliance locks to your kitchen stove and other dangerous appliances.
- Consider cordless blinds. Switch to cordless shades or use cord cleats to tie up loose cords near the windows.
- Purchase baby gates for hazardous areas. Put them up near stairs and doorways to unsafe areas. You can even buy baby gates that match your home’s décor!
- Make bath time safer. Affix no-slip mats to the bottom of the tub, put a soft cover over the faucet, and adjust your hot water heater to prevent scalding. WebMD recommends water heaters shouldn’t go above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do you have more tips to baby proof your home? Share your ideas in the comments section below.
