How do I baby proof a fireplace? Tips and techniques for baby proofing a fireplace. Many families enjoy fireplaces for the ambience they provide, and as a means of warming their homes. However, there are...
Many families enjoy fireplaces for the ambience they provide, and as a means of warming their homes. However, there are a number of potential safety concerns for parents who want to baby proof their home.
One of the first issues to be addressed is the hearth. Babies and toddlers are especially at risk of hurting themselves in falls on fireplace hearths that are raised. There are various products on the market to pad the hearth to make it safer for children. Some of the products are simple and cheap, while others can be more complicated and expensive. Just be certain to get the product that meets both your budget and your safety needs for your particular type of fireplace.
Another concern with fireplaces is to ensure that children cannot open the doors to the opening of the fireplace. There are also door guard products available to prevent this. However, a door guard alone won't be enough in some cases. When a fireplace is being used, some glass doors and other types become hot enough to the touch to seriously burn little fingers. In that case, another means of protection must be considered.
Gates can be used to corral off the fireplace area, but you must make certain they are safe to use in close proximity to the fire. They must not be made of flammable materials.
Keep fireplace tools completely out of child's reach, as they can be dangerous. On the other hand, keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case the worst happens.
If you use your fireplace, make certain that the chimney is inspected every year. Only use appropriate items in your fireplace, and never overload it with wood. Don't use the fireplace to burn non-wood items or paper refuse. Don't use coal or charcoal, and don't use lighter fluid to light fires.
Anything combustible should be kept a safe distance from the fireplace. This includes kindling, papers, draperies, or anything flammable.
Never install new doors or anything else on the fireplace or a wood-burning stove without a properly trained professional checking it out first. Many consumers have installed doors on theirs in order to improve heat efficiency, but some models cannot be used on certain fireplaces, as they create safety hazards.
Use your fireplace damper properly. Open it before you light your fire and keep it open until the ashes have cooled. This simple step can protect your family from poisonous gases.
Make certain you have a door or screen enclosure to prevent sparks from lighting carpet or other things on fire.
Make sure your smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries in them. Have a fire extinguisher handy, and know how to use it before an emergency arises.
Whatever means you use to baby proof your fireplace, know the options. As Mark Altman, founder and owner of The Childproofer, says, " You can spend a minimal amount and be very creative, or you can spend a huge amount and use products to create it [the fireplace] to be safe."
