Home Safety Checklist

(Print this out this page to check off items)

Kitchen

Poison control and emergency numbers are posted near telephones.
Back burners are used and pot handles are turned to the back of the stove when cooking.
Appliance cords are kept wound up, out of children's reach and unplugged when not in use. Covers are placed over all electrical outlets.
A fire extinguisher is easily accessible.
Guards are installed on stove knobs.
All detergent, household products, pet supplies, medicines and vitamins are locked out of children's reach.
Knives and other sharp utensils are stored in drawers or cabinets secured with safety latches.
Round, hard foods like grapes, raw carrots, had candies, nuts and raisins are kept away from young children.

Children are never left alone in the bathroom, even for a few seconds.
Safety locks are placed on all toilet lids.
The water heater thermostat is set to 120 degrees F or lower.
Electrical appliances are kept away from water and out of children's reach. Covers are placed over all unused electrical outlets.
All medicines, vitamins, cosmetics, razors and scissors are kept locked out of children's reach.

Smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home and in each sleeping area. Alarms are tested once a month, batteries are replaced at least once a year.
Several fire escape routes from each room and the home are planned and practiced and and outside meeting place is identified.
Safety gates are used at the top and bottom of stairs.
All window blind and drapery cords are tied up or the ends are cut and retrofitted with safety tassels.
Children play with age-appropriate toys according to safety labels. A certified small parts tester is used to determine if a toy or part of a toy is a choking hazard.
Poisonous plants are kept out of children's reach.
All firearms are stored unloaded and locked up, with ammunition locked up in a separate location, out of children's reach.

A smoke alarm is properly installed and maintained in every sleeping area.
Carbon monoxide detectors are installed and maintained in every sleeping area.
The crib meets national safety standards (JPMA certification label). There is no more than 2 3/8 inches of space between the slats or spindles and no cornerpost extensions or protrusions greater than 1/16 inch.
All toys, pillows, soft bedding and plastic materials have been removed from the crib.
All window blind and drapery cords are tied up or the ends are retrofitted with safety tassels.
Window guards are installed on all windows unless designated as emergency fire exits.
Tall and heavy furniture is secured to walls and sharp edges are cushioned.
Safety covers are placed over all unused electrical outlets.