Preparing Your Home

Here are a few helpful tips to prepare your home.

Add locks for security or to limit access to potentially dangerous areas. Safety locks may be needed on bathroom, kitchen and laundry room cabinets. Cover over electrical outlets and limit access to electrical appliances.

Provide gates or barriers to prevent falling down steps or to limit access to certain areas.

Arrange furniture simply and practically. Clear table surfaces, provide appropriate chairs, and move furniture away from shelves or where a child may climb.

If your grandchild is at high risk for running away (also referred to as “eloping”), place locks or alarms on exterior doors and windows that provide exits from the home. Contact the local police and fire departments and provide them with a photo and description of the child in addition to contact information for family members.