Bob Vila Radio: Childproofing Gadgets

Every home is different—and children are great at finding different things to get into every day. There’s achildproofinggadget for just about any hazard, from toilets to refrigerators to electronics, but you want to find solutions the rest of the family can live with.

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Listen toBOB VILA ON CHILDPROOFING GADGETS, or read text below:

There are several adult-friendly ways to keep cabinets and doors closed, including magnetic locks you can’t see. Rather than the plug-in socket shields, which some kids can remove, try more permanent sliding outlet covers. Furniture anchor straps are great for keeping heavy TVs, dressers, and shelves from being pulled over. You’ve got to have safety gates at stair openings, but you might want one around the woodstove or fireplace, too… or to keep curious kids out of the kitchen.

No matter what you choose to install, do a safety check again every six months to be sure you’re still covered as your child grows. And remember, no gadget protects your child better than your teaching and supervision.

Bob Vila Radiois a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening—or reading—to Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.

For more on childproofing, consider:

Childproofing the Kitchen
Childproofing the Bathroom
Quick Tip: Boost Child Safety at Home