Falls are one of the most common causes of injuries in young children. With some proactive measures, you can minimize risks and ensure your child’s safety as they grow and explore. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preventing falls at home and beyond:

1. General Fall Prevention Tips

• Never Leave Children Unattended: Always supervise your child, especially on elevated surfaces like beds or changing tables.
• Teach Safety Rules: As your child grows, teach them not to climb furniture or run on slippery floors.
• Use Proper Footwear: Ensure your child wears non-slip socks or shoes with good grip indoors and outdoors.

2. Around the Home

Stairs

• Install Safety Gates: Use gates at the top and bottom of stairs, securely mounted to the walls.
• Keep Stairs Clear: Remove toys, shoes, or clutter that could cause trips.
• Add Handrails: Ensure stair railings are sturdy and within a toddler’s reach.

Furniture

• Anchor Heavy Items: Secure bookshelves, dressers, and TVs to the wall to prevent tipping if climbed.
• Avoid Climbing Opportunities: Arrange furniture so children cannot use it to reach windows or other high places.

Floors

• Non-Slip Mats: Use rugs with anti-slip backings or secure mats with non-slip pads.
• Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe wet floors to prevent slips.

Windows

• Install Window Guards: Use safety latches or guards to prevent children from opening windows.
• Avoid Furniture Near Windows: Keep beds, chairs, and other climbable furniture away from windows.

3. In the Bedroom

• Crib Safety: Ensure the crib meets safety standards with the mattress at the correct height to prevent climbing out.
• Bed Rails: Use safety rails for toddlers transitioning to a big bed.

4. In the Bathroom

• Non-Slip Surfaces: Place non-slip mats in the bathtub and on bathroom floors.
• Never Leave Unattended: Stay with your child during bath time to prevent falls on slippery surfaces.

5. Outdoor Safety

Playground Tips

• Choose Safe Equipment: Use playgrounds with shock-absorbing surfaces like sand, rubber, or mulch.
• Supervise Play: Stay close to your child, especially on climbing equipment.
• Check for Hazards: Inspect playground equipment for broken parts, rust, or sharp edges.

Balconies and Decks

• Install Railings: Ensure railings are no more than 4 inches apart to prevent your child from squeezing through.
• Keep Furniture Away: Avoid placing chairs or tables near the edge that a child could climb on.

6. Baby Gear Safety

• Use Harnesses: Secure your baby with harnesses in high chairs, strollers, and swings.
• Avoid Elevated Surfaces: Never leave your baby in a car seat, bouncer, or carrier on a table or countertop.

7. Teach Safe Behavior

As children grow, educate them on safety basics:

• Climb stairs with care.
• Avoid running on wet surfaces.
• Use equipment like slides and swings appropriately.

8. Emergency Preparedness

• First Aid Kit: Keep one handy and learn basic first aid.
• Know Emergency Numbers: In Singapore, dial 995 for medical emergencies.

Keeping Your Child Safe

With these fall prevention measures in place, your home and outdoor areas can be safer for your little one. Remember, Petit Bowl meals can save you time, allowing you to focus more on supervision and creating a safe environment for your growing child.