Home Safety
As parents, your number one priority is keeping your children safe. Many accidents happen in the home, but with a few simple precautions, you can minimize risks and create a safer environment.
Fire Safety
Fires can start quickly and spread fast. To protect your home:
Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach of children.
Teach your children fire safety rules like stop, drop, and roll.
Create an escape plan and practice it regularly with your children.
Find more fire safety information and activities for kids at
Store it Locked!
Cleaning supplies, batteries, guns, drugs and other dangerous items should be stored out of reach of children and in childproof containers.
Get free Poison Control help online at www.poison.org or call 800-222-1222 if you or your child swallow, splash, or get stung by something that may be harmful.
- https://www.poisonhelp.org/
- https://beintheknowct.org/
- https://projectchildsafe.org/
- https://uwc.211ct.org/firearm-safety-children-and-gun-safety/
Lead, Radon, and Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Exposure to lead, radon, and carbon monoxide can be dangerous, especially to young children. Ensure your home is free from these risks by checking for common hazards:
Lead Safety: If you live in an older home, have your home tested for lead paint and dust.
- https://www.epa.gov/lead/how-make-your-home-lead-safe
- https://portal.ct.gov/dph/environmental-health/lead-poisoning-prevention-and-control/lead-poisoning-prevention-and-control-program
- https://southingtonwater.org/water-quality-report
Radon: Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into your home.
Carbon Monoxide: Install carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure that your heating systems and appliances are working properly.
- https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Environmental-Health/Environmental-and-Occupational-Health-Assessment/Carbon-Monoxide
- https://uwc.211ct.org/carbon-monoxide-co/
- https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/carbon-monoxide
Falls, Furniture Tip-Overs, and Windows
Injuries from falls, furniture tip-overs, and window accidents can be prevented with these simple steps:
Secure furniture and TVs to the wall to prevent tip-overs. Use anti-tip devices on large furniture and appliances.
Keep windows locked and install window guards or stops to prevent children from falling out.
Ensure that cords and blinds are kept out of reach of children. You may also consider installing cordless blinds.
- https://www.safekids.org/falls
- https://pfwbs.org/
- https://www.cpsc.gov/gocordless
- https://childwindowsafety.org/
Recalls
For product recalls on items like car seats, toys, furniture, appliances, clothing, etc., go to www.cpsc.gov/Recalls. You can use the search function to check on specific items you already own or are thinking of obtaining second-hand. You can sign up for emails to be notified of new recalls.
For food and drug recalls, go to www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts. You can look at the most recent recalls, search for specific recalls, and sign up for emails to be notified of new recalls.
Other Home Safety Topics
Bath Safety – https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/water-safety/
Sleep Safety – https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/safe-sleep/
