How to Use a Childproofer

As anybody who’s spent time with tots can tell you, kids have a way of courting tragedy, particularly around their own homes. They are curious, they are on the move, and when there is a danger — from insufficient stair railings to exposed electrical outlets and prescription medication within reach — they will discover it.

Input professional childproofing, an industry that’s seen massive jumps in the past several years. If you are worried that your home isn’t as safe as it could be for small ones, selecting a specialist may pay off in peace of mind. Keep Reading to Discover More.

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What a childproofer does: even though it’s hard to earn any house 100 percent childproof, these pros come as near as possible. Childproofers survey your house inside and outside for problem spots where kids can get hurt, devise customized solutions and select and install security gear. They are up to speed on the newest security codes and recalls and in the loop on new, innovative goods.

When to employ one: in the event that you have young kids or grandkids, or when little children regularly visit your house, professional guidance can be priceless. A child-safety expert can reveal hidden dangers that you did not know about and poisonous areas you might overlook.

Even teens are subject to certain dangers, so many people choose to call in a childproofer before baby arrives. Child security becomes crucial once kids are portable, beginning to roll, crawl and pull up.

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What it will cost: Costs vary based on the size of your residence and also the safety equipment required, but expect to pay roughly $500 to $1,500 or more to childproof an ordinary single-family house. Some childproofers will agree to a consultation fee, usually around $100 to $200 — they create recommendations; you purchase and install the security equipment. Others offer the consultation at no cost and earn their gain from equipment sales.

Should you do your shopping, make certain the expert has vetted the brands and products you choose; occasionally the cheapest gear is also the least reliable. And if you are not handy with a drill or screwdriver, it may be worth the extra price to make sure that the items are installed correctly.

Where to find one: Contact the International Association for Child Safety, which offers a directory by state. Hospital maternity centers, baby and toddler shops, and that old standby, the local parent grapevine, can also offer suggestions.

Any expert you consider should have passed the HHT (Home Risks Test), the industry standard. Some have earned the CPC (Certified Professional Childproofer) designation, so they have at least 600 hours of childproofing expertise and have passed a background check, a certification examination, and reference and continuing education requirements.

Got a childproofer in mind? Here’s what to do.
Request references.
No matter how personable and capable a childproofing expert sounds, ask the names of a few references to get a true handle on her or his work. Request past customers about the security gear that the childproofer recommended, the quality of the setup, unexpected difficulties during or after the process and more.

Detail special considerations. If your child has restricted mobility or is unusually prone to activities like climbing and leaping, make certain the childproofer knows that at the beginning. It is going to also help share any information regarding your lifestyle that may affect products and alternatives (if you use a cosleeper in lieu of a crib, by way of instance).

Do not assume that childproofing must ruin your decor. Some parents aren’t pleased with the utilitarian appearance of gates, latches, grab bars and other equipment. While security always trumps design, work with the childproofer to produce alternatives that fulfill both goals — just be prepared for them to price more in several scenarios.

For example, if you can not abide the thought of padding onto the corners of your coffee table, think about replacing it with a round design or some cushioned ottoman that removes sharp angles. Cordless cellular shades or cornice boards may look just as smart as traditional draperies. Many childproofing products also come in sleek designs which will blend in well with the appearance of your space.

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