Keeping Little Ones Safe Indoors and Outdoors

As children grow, they become more curious, active, and eager to explore the world around them. Creating safe spaces — both inside and outside — helps them learn and move with

confidence. Here are simple, everyday tips to help keep young children safe in the environments where they play, learn, and grow.

Indoor Safety Tips

• Make sure furniture, TVs, and wall hangings are secured to sturdy surfaces so they cannot tip over.

• Keep battery-operated devices out of reach; swallowing batteries can be extremely dangerous.

• Check toys regularly to ensure they don’t have small parts that may cause choking.

• Only use toys, art supplies, makeup, and paint that are labeled lead-free. Lead exposure can be harmful to a child’s development.

• Install window guards or window bars on upper-level windows to prevent falls.

• Avoid small, round, or hard foods — like nuts, whole grapes, or popcorn — for children under five.

• Store vitamins, medicine, detergents, and cleaning products up high and behind a childproof lock.

• Keep the Poison Control phone number posted in a visible, easy-to-access spot.
  

Outdoor Safety Tips

• Always secure your child in the correct car seat for their age, height, and weight. If you’re unsure about installation, local police or fire stations can often help you check it.

• As children gain independence, they may not want to hold your hand when crossing the street. Offering choices — like “Do you want to hold my hand or have me carry you?” — can keep them safe while giving them a sense of control.

• Stay within arm’s reach around any amount of water, including pools, bathtubs, fountains, buckets, or containers. Even shallow water can be dangerous.

• Kids love playing outside, but they don’t always know when to slow down. Offer shade breaks, reapply sunscreen regularly, and make sure they stay hydrated.

• Encourage handwashing with soap and water — especially before meals — to help keep germs away.