Los Angeles Apartment Life

Imagine you’re only one or two feet off the ground. Your only mode of transportation is that of crawling or utilizing your not-so-perfected walking technique. This is the frame of mind you need to enter to begin successfully baby proofing your apartment. Many babies and young toddlers are injured each year in homes and apartments across America because precautions were not taken to prevent easily avoidable injuries.

Start with the basics.

The kitchen can be one of the most dangerous places for small children. Keep sharp objects out of reach of toddlers and install locking mechanisms on all the cabinets so they cannot be opened without difficulty. There is a whole array of baby proofing products designed for the kitchen that includes additional locking oven latches and burner covers.

Removable plastic screens and gates should be put up in front of areas, doors and stairways to prevent young ones from entering off limit areas in the apartment. Open windows within reach of toddlers should have similar screens to prevent climbing and access. The next baby proofing step is to make sure all electrical outlets in the home are covered with plastic caps to prevent toddlers from putting their fingers and other objects into the outlets.

Doors and cabinets are the next area for concern. Door handles and locks are often in reach of toddlers. Consider mounting additional locks higher on the doors, out of reach for to ensure doors, cabinets and windows cannot be opened without an adult. Do not think of screens doors and window screens as acceptable barriers. Many of these screens can pop loose or break when pressed with the weight of a toddler. Additional sturdy screens and gates are needed to secure these areas.

For the most part baby proofing an apartment is an exercise of common sense, but it is not something that should taken lightly. Make sure you get online and research baby proofing ideas. Create lists of the areas and methods that you are going to be working with.

When you do decide to go out and purchase baby proofing products, try to find consumer and independent reviews of the products whenever possible. Some products are better than others and with all baby products and toys, independent reviews are often essential to make sure that you are getting the best products for your little one.

Consumer Reports, About.com and Babies R’ Us offer product reviews and best product listings online for your baby proofing undertaking.

credit: spcummings

Babyproofing 101:

Take this Baby proofing quiz to find out how safe your home is and then use these tips for ensuring that your Los Angeles apartment is the safest environment for your little one.

• Clear all surfaces at or below your chest.
• Use a mesh gate that is less likely to hurt your baby.
• Doorknob covers stop your toddler from being able to open the door.
• Slip-proof mats underneath throw rugs can prevent baby injuries.
• Install a toilet lid lock.
• Learn which houseplants are potentially harmful to your baby.
• Shorten or cut any drapery or blind cords.
• Install smoke detectors in your home.
• Block pet doors because babies may follow your animals outdoors.