Falls

Falls

It's a simple fact: children fall. But there are a few precautions you can take to help prevent falls in your home.

  • Keep your stairways free of clutter.
  • Make sure your child cannot open any window. If you do raise your windows, make sure they do not go any farther than 12 inches. Always keep screens in place.
  • If you have hardwood floors, use nonskid rugs and floor mats. If your baby is learning to walk, put nonskid socks on their feet.
  • Put gates or other secure mesh around open railings.
  • Put gates at the top and bottom of all stairways, including deck stairs.
  • Never let your baby use a walker. It poses safety hazards.
  • Do not let your child climb on chairs, tables, furniture, bookcases or cupboards.

Source: Allina Health's Patient Education, Guide for the Care of Children: Ages Birth to 5, sixth edition, ped-ah-91554
First Published: 02/01/2010
Last Reviewed: 11/16/2022