Tips for Creating a Safe Home Environment for Pets, Children and Seniors!

Creating a safe home environment is must for the well-being of pets, children, and older adults. As guardians of these loved ones, you have to make sure they are safe at all times. Taking the right safety measures not only prevent accidents but also promotes a happy home where everyone - two-legged or four-legged - can thrive.

First you want to secure potential “hazards”. The first thing you need to do is identify things that could pose risks. Even things that are normal, common household items can be hazardous - like cleaning supplies, medications, sharp objects, etc. These things must be put away in a safe space at all times. For example, cleaning supplies should be stored in high cabinets with childproof locks, and medications can be placed in locked drawers. Research shows that nearly 60,000 children under age 5 are treated for accidental poisonings each year in the United States. By securing potential risks, you can significantly reduce the chances of accidental poisoning or injury for both pets and children.

The best way to identify these types of things is doing an actual “walk-through” of your home. Watch out for chocking hazards, like smaller toys, loose change - anything small that a young child (or pet!) could get a hold of.

Speaking of pets, lets talk about them! To make sure you have a safe home environment. This includes properly training your pets - especially dogs. Dogs absolutely should be able to master basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it." A trained dog is more likely to respond positively in various situations, making interactions with children and seniors safer.

Socialization for dogs is just as important. Exposing pets to different environments and people will build their confidence, which will help lower potential behavior issues.

Finally, you absolutely must keep up with vet visits. Making sure your pets are healthy and free from parasites is so important. This is especially true for babies, young children and senior family members.

In addition, while kids and pets can develop wonderful bonds, supervision is key to ensuring safe. Curious children may inadvertently provoke pets, leading to bites or scratches. You must teach your children the correct way to approach and handle pets. For instance, explain the importance of being gentle and letting pets come to them rather than chasing or startling them. Also, you want to make sure you pet has a “retreat”, a place to go to escape if they feel overwhelmed. It’s important your children can recognize pet “body language”, so they understand when an animal is comfortable or needs space. Other safety measures can be the use of baby gates - which can be used for both pets and children!

Here’s something you may not think about too much - but adequate lighting is key! Having enough lighting is an absolute must for older adults. This will help to prevent things like accidental falls. In addition, installing grab bars in bathrooms and secure handrails on stairs can provide necessary support.

Let’s head outside! Your backyard also requires attention when it comes to safety. Making sure that fences are tall in enough and in good condition will help keep kids and pets safe!

Also, setting up designated play areas for children and pets can keep them away from potential hazards, such as garden tools or pool equipment. Training pets to stay within specific boundaries encourages a safe outdoor play environment.

By taking these steps, you can be sure you are creating anvironment where everyone will feel safe and secure!