Safety for children

Fire safety is especially important for children, as they may not fully understand the dangers of fire or know how to react in an emergency. Creating a safe environment with appropriate controls helps protect their lives and ensures a quick, coordinated response in the event of a fire.

Controls to keep children safe from fire:

• Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach and out of sight of children.
• Teach children basic fire safety (how to dial emergency services).
• Create and practice a fire escape plan, ensuring children know two ways out of each room.
• Ensure escape routes are clear of toys, furniture, or clutter.
• Do not leave children unattended near cooking appliances, heaters, or electrical items.

Electrical safety is essential for protecting children in the home, as they are naturally curious and may not recognize the dangers posed by electrical appliances, outlets, and cables. Taking appropriate precautions helps prevent electric shock, burns, and potential fires.

Controls to keep children safe from electrical hazards:

• Install childproof socket covers on all unused electrical outlets.
• Keep cords and cables out of reach and secured to prevent tripping or chewing.
• Never leave children unsupervised near electrical appliances or devices.
• Avoid overloading sockets and use certified power strips with surge protection.
• Keep electrical appliances away from water and ensure dry hands when using them.
• Store appliances safely when not in use, especially items like hairdryers, kettles, and irons.
• Use tamper-resistant outlets or outlet plates in areas accessible to children.
• Inspect electrical cords regularly for signs of damage or fraying and replace when needed.
• Educate older children on the risks of electricity and safe use of appliances.
   

Garden safety is important for children as outdoor spaces can present hidden hazards, from sharp tools and toxic plants to water features and uneven surfaces. Proper supervision and safety measures help prevent accidents and allow children to play safely.

Controls to keep children safe in the garden:

• Supervise children at all times when they are outdoors.
• Secure garden boundaries with safe fencing and lockable gates to prevent wandering.
• Cover or fence off water features such as ponds, fountains, or paddling pools.
• Avoid planting toxic or thorny plants where children play (e.g., foxglove, oleander).
• Ensure garden surfaces are even and slip-resistant to reduce fall risks.
• Teach children basic garden safety rules, like not eating unknown plants or climbing fences.
   

Window and door safety is vital for protecting children from falls, entrapment, or wandering outside unsupervised. Young children are naturally curious and may not understand the risks, so securing openings is essential to ensure a safe home environment.

Controls to keep children safe around windows and doors:

• Ensure window restrictors are not removed or safety locks to prevent windows from opening too wide.
• Keep furniture away from windows to reduce the risk of children climbing up and falling.
• Never leave children unattended in rooms with open windows or unlocked doors.
• Educate children on the dangers of leaning out of windows or opening doors without permission.
• Secure patio or balcony doors, especially in upper-floor properties, with appropriate childproof locks.

Scaffolding should never be climbed on, as it could lead to serious injury and damage. Take a look at our full advice for staying safe around scaffolding. 

Wood burners and gas fire safety is essential in homes with children, as these appliances can become extremely hot and pose a serious risk of burns, fire, or accidental injury. Proper safety precautions help ensure children can enjoy a warm environment without being exposed to unnecessary danger.

Controls to keep children safe around wood burners:

• Install a secure fire guard or heat-resistant safety gate around the burner to prevent direct access.
• Always supervise children when the burner is in use or still hot.
• Keep flammable items (e.g. toys, clothing, blankets) well away from the wood burner.
• Teach children about the dangers of going near or touching the burner.
• Store firewood and tools securely and out of reach of children.
• Allow the wood burner to fully cool before letting children near the area or removing the guard.

Pond and water safety is critical for protecting children, as even shallow water poses a serious drowning risk. Children are naturally drawn to water but may not understand the dangers, so appropriate safety measures must be in place to prevent accidents.

Controls to keep children safe around ponds and water features:

• Supervise children at all times when they are near any body of water, including ponds, fountains, or water butts.
• Avoid installing new water features in play areas or where supervision is difficult.
• Teach children never to play near water without an adult present.
• Ensure surfaces around water are non-slip to prevent falls.
• Keep garden paths and steps in good repair to avoid trips near water areas.