Walls & Floors

• Are walls in good condition, with no peeling or cracking paint (which could contain lead in older homes)?
• Are rugs secured to floors or fitted with anti-slip pads underneath?

Doors & Windows

• Have you installed a finger pinch guard on doors?
• Have you removed the rubber tips from all door stops or installed one-piece door stops?
• Have you placed doorknob covers on doors so that your toddler won't be able to leave the house?
• Do all glass doors in the house contain decorative markers so they won't be mistaken for open doors?
• Do all sliding doors have childproof locks?
• Are there safety bars or window guards installed on upper-story windows?
• Are window blind cords tied with clothespins or specially designed cord clips?

Furniture

• Are bookshelves and other furniture secured with wall brackets so they can't be tipped over?
• Is there protective padding on any corners of coffee tables, furniture, and countertops that have sharp edges?
• Have you checked that all used or hand-me-down baby equipment hasn't been recalled?

Stairways

• Are there hardware-mounted safety gates at the top and bottom of every stairway?
• Are stairways clear of tripping hazards, such as loose carpeting or toys?
• Have you placed a guard on banisters and railings if your child can fit through the rails?
• Are the railings and banisters secure?
• Is the door to the basement steps kept locked?

Reviewed by: Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: December 2009