LOFT

Ladders Check that ladders are in good condition and use them at a safe angle. If possible, use a proper loft ladder; don’t stand on a chair.

Floor Make your loft floor as safe as possible, using boards to strengthen it. Avoid DIY accidents by operating within the range of your ability. Always use protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, facemask, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

BEDROOM

Drawers under window Move furniture away from windows and fit restrictor catches on windows to prevent falls.

Bottles on dressing table Keep medicines, cosmetics and fragrances out of the sight and reach of children.

Electric blankets Regularly check electric blankets for wear and tear.

Floor clutter To prevent falls, keep the floor free of clutter and rugs.

BATHROOM

Monitoring the kids Never leave children unsupervised during bathing or when you’re filling the bath.

Water temperature Run a bath with the cold tap first, then add hot water. Test the water temperature before getting in, using your elbow or the back of your hand.

Bath mat Use nonslip surfaces or mats in showers and baths.

HALLWAY AND STAIRS

Carpet Securely fix carpets. Rugs on laminate or polished wood floors should have a nonslip backing.

Avoid tumbles If you’ve got young children, securely fit stairgates at the top and bottom of stairs.

A firm grip Ensure that handrails and banisters are secure.

Let there be light Change light bulbs safely using a stable step stool.

Don't trip up Remove trip hazards, such as bags, shoes, toys.

Fire alarm Fit a fire alarm on each floor; test once a week.

LIVING ROOM

Fire guards To reduce the likelihood of household fires and carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty flues or equipment, have heating appliances professionally serviced once a year and sweep chimneys. All fires should have secure guards.

Candles Use candles in stable holders and always put tea-lights on a noncombustible surface, and never leave them unattended.

Blowing a fuse Don’t overload electrical sockets with too many appliances.

On the shelf If you have toddlers that are eager climbers, secure bookcases and TVs to the wall to prevent them toppling over.

KITCHEN

Sharp objects Don’t leave or store sharp knives and scissors within reach of children.

Pots and pans Use the back rings on a cooker or hob first, positioning the pan handles so they can’t be pulled over.

Carbon monoxide detector One with an alarm is best. Where you place it is important, so fit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Safe storage Store household cleaners at a high level, not under the sink.

Watch out for kettle flex Don’t let flexes from kettles, toasters and mixers hang over the work surface, as children can pull on them.

Spills on floor Immediately mop up spilt liquids.

GARDEN AND DIY

Pathways Make sure all paths and steps are level, stable and free from moss.

Weedkiller Carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions when using weed killers, adhesives and solvents.

Pond pitfalls Cover or fence off garden ponds and rainwater butts when young children are around. Always supervise water play.

Outdoor toys Install items such as trampolines in accordance with manufacturers’ guidelines.

Gates and fences Make sure that fences are safe and fit garden gates with child-resistant catches.

Lawnmower Always use a device (a residual current device) that cuts off the electricity supply if there is a fault.

Bonfire Light bonfires and barbecues well away from fences, sheds and trees, and fully extinguish.

Information provided by the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents. For more information, visit rospa.com or phone 0121-248 2000

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