Babyproofing: HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Systems

As a devoted guardian, absolutely nothing is more critical than keeping your baby’s protection.

As soon as your little ones start crawling, your whole living space can seem like one big safety hazard!Your home’s HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems are especially stressful for parents to think about.

With this comprehensive guide, you can make sure your home’s essential systems are adequately babyproofed for your complete reassurance.

Secure HVAC Vents and Registers

HVAC registers that are installed in the air vents throughout your home are frequently irresistible hazards for tiny fingers and toes. Here’s how to ensure your child’s safety:

• Screw down registers: If your base or side registers easily detach, use screws to fasten them down to ensure they’re not going anywhere.
• Cover registers with childproof vent covers: These use a protective screen to block little things from dropping in without blocking airflow.

Make the Thermostat Inaccessible

Little ones are captivated by buttons and screens, so the thermostat is a tempting plaything. Use these tips to avoid unexpected temperature fluctuations in your home:

• Place the thermostat out of reach: The thermostat should be set up at adult eye level. Avoid putting furniture near it that could entice kids to climb up to try to access it.
• Lock the controls: Some thermostats include child-lock functions to prevent anyone from fiddling with the settings. If yours doesn’t have this feature, think about installing a thermostat cover that blocks curious kids from changing the temperature.

Babyproof Utility Spaces

If your HVAC system units are positioned in the basement or utility closet, this is a prime spot for babyproofing. Young children shouldn’t be in these spaces, so follow these tips to keep them safe:

• Install doorknob covers: If the utility space is enclosed, you have it easy. Just attach a childproof cover on the doorknob to stop your kids from opening the furnace room door.
• Use a safety gate: If your HVAC equipment is in an open area, use a safety gate to prevent curious crawlers from getting near your furnace or water heater.
• Keep tabs on the carbon monoxide detectors: Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each floor, particularly if you have gas appliances. Unfortunately, plug-in versions are simple for kids to reach. An alternative is installing combination CO/smoke detectors or alarms on the ceiling for maximum safety.

Protect Your Child from the Dangers of Hot Surface Burns

In many homes, heat sources aren’t limited to the utility room. Here’s how to protect your child from hot surfaces:

• Set up heat guards: Arrange a straightforward baby gate or specially designed heat guard around radiators to form a barrier between your child and hot surfaces.
• Refrain from using space heaters: A correctly adjusted heating system should provide adequate warmth in every room and there should be little reason to add a space heater to draw curious kids.

Make Sure Children Are Protected from Electric Equipment and Wiring

Electricity is essential for modern homes but poses safety hazards for kids. Here are tips for how you can babyproof your home’s electrical setup:

• Use outlet covers: Building code stipulates new receptacles to be tamper resistant. If you have older outlets, you can cover them with outlet covers. Choose sliding covers rather than plug-in style, which toddlers can sometimes detach.
• Conceal or tape down cords: Exposed cords are a grabbing and chewing hazard. Employ cord concealers or tape them down next to the baseboards. Power strip covers are also beneficial for stopping little fingers from reaching the sockets.
• Lock up your home’s electrical panel: If your electrical panel is within reach, be sure it’s firmly sealed and locked to prevent inquisitive kids from playing with it.

Take Advantage of These Plumbing Safety Tips

Toddlers love water play. Make sure they remain protected around your sinks, tubs and toilets with these safety tips for home plumbing and plumbing fixtures:

• Lower the water temperature: Set your water heater to 120 degrees F to stop scalding at the tap. Just refrain from setting it at a temperature any cooler than this, or you risk microbial growth in the tank.
• Attach a faucet cover: Has your baby ever knocked their head on the bathtub faucet? Soft, rubberized covers are an simple way to stop this type of injury.
• Buy toilet locks: Babies are often captivated with the toilet. A special lock stops little ones from accessing unsanitary water or throwing toys inside, which can result in pipe clogs.

Trust Xtra Mile for HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Service in Riviera Beach

With these safety tips, you can be sure to create a safe environment for the whole family. At Xtra Mile, we’re pleased to help parents protect their little ones with prompt, trustworthy HVAC, plumbing and electrical service in Riviera Beach. We are focusing on making a significant difference in the lives of every customer we serve.

Call 561-867-7332 today to get in touch with our team. We’ll ensure your home stays comfortable and secure for everyone.