By Ng Pau Ling
IT’S easy to convert your home into a more comfortable and accessible place by using some simple interior design tricks. These tips are beneficial for people of all ages, in particular children who require extra care.
CHILDPROOF DESIGN
Tip 1: From the child’s eye view
To design a childproof living environment, it’s best to look at things from the child’s eye-level. Viewing from the child’s perspective will help you figure out what’s within their vision and spot the hazardous zones.
Tip 2: Round and low
Furniture with sharp edges and corners are the worst enemy at home because children will easily get scrapes and cuts from these objects. Therefore, choose furniture with rounded edges to minimise risk and prevent injury. In addition, make sure there is no flaking paint or dangling cords. Using low or waist-high furniture not only opens up the interior space but also enhances safety by allowing parents to supervise their children in the room.
Tip 3: Clear arrangement
Arrange the furniture in the living environment in such a way as to allow smooth movement and prevent children from tripping or falling. Also, parents must be able to keep an eye on the young ones from all positions in the room.
Tip 4: Away from the windows
With increasing mobility, toddlers will climb to explore their surroundings. Therefore, do not place furniture near the window or balcony.
All upstairs windows should be locked and installed with window guards, which are metal or aluminium devices connected to the lower half of windows. The devices prevent windows from being open wide and stop a child from falling out.
Tip 5: Install safety gates
The stairs are among the most dangerous areas in the home for slips and falls. Install safety gates at both ends of the stairs to prevent toddlers from climbing up or down the steps. You could also install the gates in the kitchen and bathroom to control access.
Tip 6: Cover all electrical outlets
Close and cover electrical outlets with individual outlet caps when not in use. This will protect your toddler from accidentally inserting a finger or metal object into the socket.
Tip 7: Built-in system
Heavy and bulky products such as a cabinet, TV and chest of drawers that tip over could cause severe injuries to children. Besides stabilising these items or mounting them on the wall, consider a built-in storage system with doors to minimise risks.
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