Home is where you relax and enjoy all you have worked toward. But having toddlers and little kids also means a constant busy struggle staying one step ahead of them to make sure they stay safe all the time. We’ve put together a list of ways to keep your little ones out of trouble’s way. 

Batteries – The emergency rooms are kept busy with children who have swallowed little button-sized batteries. While it makes sense to keep the batteries out of reach, also keep the items that use the batteries in places that little hands can’t find them. This includes watches, key fobs, remotes, calculators, etc. 

Prepare for Fire – If your kids are old enough, sit down with them to plan out an escape strategy in the house. Have them draw a map describing how they would leave if a fire broke out. From this you can tell them whether they’re correct or if there is a better path to get to safety. Then practice your plan by simulating an emergency. 

Kitchen Hazards – This popular room in the house is ripe for danger from the stove to the fridge to the cleaning supplies to the dishwasher. Put child latches and locks on anything that can open as well as the stove knobs, and consider not storing poisonous items under the sink, even if they’re locked in. Make sure none of the lower cabinets have glass in them and don’t store step stools where kids can find them and use. 

Cooking Dangers – Little kids love to help out in the kitchen, but it’s a potential minefield! Don’t leave anything on the edge of a counter, turn pot handles inward on the stove and don’t let little ones get underfoot as you transfer hot dishes. Instead, dedicate a space at the table or kitchen island while you’re preparing dinner and let them play with plastic bowls, wooden spoons and even a little water. They’ll think they’re cooking just like you! 

Poison Control Number – Keep this number on hand at all times…in the kitchen….stored as a contact in your phone…in the bathroom. If you need to phone them, you want easy and immediate access to the number and not have to search for it when you could be in risky and panicky situation. The number is (800) 222-1222. 

If you are searching for a new home, please know San Joaquin Valley Homes is still busy building homes throughout the Central Valley. To see our homes, we are offering virtual tours on our website and we can schedule a private in-person appointment with you.