Because parents spend so much time in the kitchen, small children will want to be there with them.  Keep your little ones safe, take the following steps:

1.  Store matches, lighters, sharp utensils and household cleaners in a cabinet accessible only to adults.  No knife blocks on the counter.

2.  Put child safety latches on all lower-level cabinets.

3.  Unplug appliances when not in use and keep cords out of reach of children.

4.  Never pour hot liquid near a child and never leave hot drinks within reach.

5.  Use the back burners of the stove and turn pot handles toward the back.

6.  Purchase safety features that secure free standing ovens to the wall.

7.  Watch out for tablecloths, since small children enjoy pulling on the cloth, glasses and plates can fall off.

8.  Keep stools and chairs away from counters and stoves.

9.  Be sure to keep alcohol locked away from children.

10.  Always wash your hands with soap after handling meat or poultry.

11.  Use a child safety gate, if possible, in the doorway to keep children out of the kitchen completely when you are in another room.

Other tips:
Since children enjoy “helping” in the kitchen, give them large plastic containers and wooden spoons to play with while you’re cooking.

Let children help you with simple, safe tasks such as putting cookie dough on pans.

For More Information Contact

Dean Burton
Babyproofers of Portland
(503) 533-5598
www.baby-proofers.com