Safety Hazards for Children in Households

Strangulation

• Long cords, such as electrical cords, phone cords or the strings from window coverings, can lead to strangulation if the cord is long enough and the child wraps herself up in it. All cords, even computer cords, should be tucked out of the way, secured to the wall or placed high enough that the child cannot reach it. Toys with strings, straps or any other cords longer than 7 inches are potentially hazardous.

Drowning

• Children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water. Pools are an obvious hazard, though many drownings occur in a bathtub when the caregiver steps out for just a moment to answer the phone or tend to another child. Never leave a child alone in water or allow him in the bathroom alone if he knows how to turn on the water.

Choking

• Small toys, coins, beads, balls and balloons are just a few of the small items children can potentially choke on. Children under 3 shouldn't have access to toys or other items that are small enough to fit inside of an empty toilet paper tube. Food, such as popcorn, hotdogs, small candies, carrots and nuts are also choking hazards. Toys or stuffed animals placed over a child's bed or in the crib with her can lead to suffocation.

Crushed

• Heavy furniture, such as dressers or shelves, and large electronics, such as flat-screen TVs, can fall on a child when he tries to climb the item and crush him. Use anchors or brackets to secure large, heavy items to the walls or place heavy items on lower shelves. Toys or candy placed on top of furniture may tempt the child to climb. Remove these items from sight to help discourage the child from climbing. Exercise equipment can also crush a young child. Secure the equipment carefully and make sure the child does not have access to the equipment without adult supervision.

Burns

• A hot stove or hot liquids can lead to a child burning herself. A hot cup of coffee can potentially cause 3rd degree burns if the liquid makes contact with the child's skin. Keep pots and pans on back burners where the child can't pull them off the stove. Put lighters, matches and candles -- especially when lit -- out of the child's reach.

Poison

• Children can poison themselves or overdose easily as their little bodies process things faster than adults. Medicine, pills and vitamins should all be put up where the child cannot access them. Use child safety locks on any cabinet containing medication and cleaning supplies. Many cleaning supplies or car liquids, such as antifreeze, look like yummy drinks to young children because of the bright colors.