Kid-Proofing Grandma's House

​​Remember the commercial featuring the mom who is distracted from watching her child because she had to answer the door and in doing so, the toddler goes off and makes mischief in the house? In a commercial, no real harm comes to baby or home. But haven't you ever wondered what dangers your child faces at home or in the homes of relatives and friends?

According to Babyproofers Inc., "Accidents are the number one health hazard for children. More than 1/3 of childhood deaths between the ages of 1 and 14 are caused by accidents, which kill more than the five leading fatal diseases combined." You can use these safety tips to protect your child's environment:

1. Talk it out. Before arriving at your destination, call the hosts and ask that any pets, plants, small objects, guns and other items that may scare or hurt your child be securely hidden. This may sound over the top, but it really isn't when you stop to think it's for your child's safety.
2. Check in. After you arrive, take a few minutes to familiarize your child with the surroundings and review the rules you set before you came (see next tip). Also, get down to your child's eye level and look around to see what might be dangerous.
3. Teach the rules on being a good guest. Before visiting friends or family, teach your child a few simple rules.​

• Ask first before getting or eating anything
• Snooping is never allowed
• Play where adults can easily see or hear you
• No means no. Teach your child how to accept no answers and to follow your instructions. Practice these skills with your child.
• Teach them the 3-S's of safety: Stay away if it's too Sharp, too Small or too Secretive.

Be prepared for emergencies. Make sure all emergency numbers are accessible to you when you're away from home. Have a first aid kit in the trunk of the car. Practice fire drills with your children and review how to exit the house in case of a fire. This can be very helpful on those overnight stays with Grandma and Grandpa.

Did you know?2-year-olds are unable to understand the concept of accident. No matter how you try to explain it, if another child inadvertently bumps into your toddler, the little one will take the assault as a personal affront.