- Create a child-friendly home checklist to identify potential hazards and necessary repairs.
- Set up a repairs and maintenance schedule to ensure required repairs and maintenance are not missed.
- Check smoke detectors, hot tub wirings, window locks, and air filters regularly to keep your home safe.
- Use professional services if necessary to address repairs beyond your expertise.
- Consult with a local home inspector for an unbiased assessment of the safety of your home.
As a parent, one of the most important jobs you have is to ensure the safety of your children. This can be incredibly challenging when it comes to the security of your home. With all the potential hazards that can exist, it can be challenging to stay on top of all the necessary repairs and changes to keep your little ones safe. Here are some tips you can use.
Create a Child-Friendly Home Checklist
One of the first things you should do is create a checklist of potential hazards and necessary repairs. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you are addressing all the crucial areas in your home.
Some things to consider adding to your checklist might include covering electrical outlets, installing baby gates, securing large furniture to walls, and ensuring that all windows and doors have proper locks. Getting your family involved in home repairs can also be a great way to make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to safety.
This might include giving your children a checklist of their own to help keep them involved and engaged. Additionally, involving your partner or other family members in repairs can help distribute responsibilities and make the process less overwhelming.
Set a Repairs & Maintenance Schedule
Once you have your checklist, it’s time to set up a schedule for repairs and maintenance. This will help ensure that you are keeping up with necessary repairs and not letting anything fall through the cracks. Depending on your home and family’s needs, you might want to set up a monthly, quarterly, or yearly schedule. Here are some specific things to check:
Fire Alarms & Smoke Detectors
These sensors are crucial in ensuring the safety of your home and family. Every year, thousands of people die in home fires, and many of these deaths could have been prevented with the use of working smoke detectors.
Smoke detectors should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Additionally, fire alarms should be tested monthly, and batteries should be changed at least once a year.
Hot Tub Wiring
Hot tubs are a great way to relax and enjoy time with your family. However, its wirings are not something you want to skimp on when it comes to safety.
Hire a professional electrician to inspect for problems in an old one or install durable hot tub wiring for new ones. Afterward, it’s advisable to check these regularly, as some areas may be prone to wear and tear.
Window Locks
Window locks are essential for both security and safety. You want to make sure that your windows have the correct type of locks, as some may be prone to slipping and failure over time.
Check regularly that all window locks are in good condition, and if they are not, replace them immediately. Additionally, check to make sure that any windows that are above ground level have secure locks, as this can prevent falls and other accidents.
Air Filters
Air filters are often overlooked when it comes to home repairs, but they are an essential element for keeping your family safe. Air filters clean the air in your home, removing dust and other allergens from the environment.
Check these regularly and replace them every 3-6 months, depending on the type of filter you have. Doing this will help ensure that your family is breathing in clean, safe air.
Utilize Professional Services
Finally, if you have a list of repairs that are beyond your comfort level or expertise, it’s important to use professional services to help address these repairs. This might include calling an electrician to install GFCI outlets, hiring a carpenter to secure large pieces of furniture, or calling a professional cleaner to deep clean your carpets and eliminate any lingering allergens.
You should also not hesitate to contact your local fire department for help with items such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. These are essential safety items, and having the assistance of a professional will ensure that they are installed correctly.
If possible, it’s also a good idea to consult with your local home inspector. They can provide an unbiased assessment of the safety of your home and may even be able to point out areas that you haven’t noticed or thought about.
Keeping your children safe at home is a never-ending job. However, by staying organized and taking a proactive approach to home repairs, you can create a safer environment for your family. By creating a checklist, setting a schedule, and routinely checking your home, you can stay on top of necessary repairs and ensure your home is a safe and healthy space for your little ones to grow and thrive.
