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During the winter, there can be some specific safety concerns to think about at home. When it gets colder, you turn on the heating and perhaps light a fire, making your home cosy and warm. But the cold weather also brings with it some important issues that you don’t want to ignore. Keeping your home safe for your children is vital, and that can mean doing a few different things at different points in the year. Before winter arrives, there are some steps that you should take to make your home safer for your whole family until spring arrives.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm
A working carbon monoxide alarm is something that your home should have all year. But when winter arrives and you have the heating on more, it’s even more important to have a CO alarm. Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can come from fuel-burning appliances, such as your boiler or wood-burning stove if they are not working as they should be. A carbon monoxide alarm will alert you of high levels of CO, which is essential because it is a colourless and odourless gas. If you already have an alarm, be sure to test it to ensure it’s working.
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Clear Away Snow and Ice
When it starts getting cold enough for snow and ice outdoors, it can get pretty slippery. Keeping the perimeter of your home clear will help to prevent slips and falls. You can clear away snow from paths if you happen to get any during the winter. Putting down salt or grit when it’s icy will help to make the ground less slippery. It’s also a good idea to get rid of any snow that may pile up on your roof, which could fall off. Keep your car clear of snow and ice too, especially if you’re going to be driving around with your children in the back.
Keep Kids Away from Fires
Lighting a fire in the winter is wonderful when it’s cold outside. But fireplaces are also a big hazard, and it’s crucial to keep children away from them. Setting up a baby fireguard is the best thing to do if you want to prevent children from touching or getting too close. It’s also a good idea to explain the dangers of getting too close, how hot it is, and how they could get burned. They can start to understand that it’s dangerous from a young age.
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Be Safe with Electric Blankets and Hot Water Bottles
Using hot water bottles and electric blankets can be a good way to warm up during chilly nights. But it’s important to exercise caution when using these items, which can be dangerous if not used safely. Hot water bottles can lead to burns and scalds, while electric blankets should never be left plugged in. If you use either of these things, learn how to use them in a safe manner.
Pay attention to these home safety concerns this winter to keep your children and your whole family safe.
