A safer home for your baby aged 0-12 months - PDF checklist
Look at your home from a baby's perspective before they begin reaching, rolling, moving and climbing. Check safety measures again as your baby develops. This list helps identify common hazards, but it is not a technical inspection or a safety guarantee. No accessory replaces attentive adult care.
Check your home repeatedly
Do an initial review before birth, then repeat it when your baby's abilities or your home's contents change. Check the floor after visitors, older siblings or unpacking shopping. Something previously out of reach may become accessible when your baby learns a new way to move.
Match the safety measure to the setting
A gate, cupboard lock or furniture anchor works properly only when selected, fitted and used appropriately. Check the instructions, age limits and permitted installation locations. Ask a qualified professional about electrical installations, wall fixings or unusual stairs if you are unsure.
A checklist does not replace emergency preparation
This review helps reduce risk but does not teach resuscitation or choking first aid. A course with a qualified instructor lets you practise your response. Agree how to contact local help and explain your location, including when someone else cares for your child.
Preparation checklist
Floors, furniture and windows
- Remove small objects, coins, magnets and button batteries from reach; check battery compartments are secure.
- Secure furniture and televisions against tipping following the instructions and the wall construction.
- Move climbable furniture away from windows; check window, balcony and stair safety measures.
- Remove access to blind-cord loops, cables and plastic bags, including around your baby's sleeping space.
Kitchen, medicines and chemicals
- Keep medicines, cleaning products, laundry capsules and other substances in their original containers, locked away and out of reach.
- Place hot drinks, appliance cords and cookware where your child cannot pull them down.
- Check cupboard and drawer catches work; child-resistant packaging is not completely child-proof.
- Arrange a safe place for your baby while you handle hot or sharp objects.
Bathroom, sleep and everyday care
- Empty the baby bath and other water containers; limit your child's access to the bathroom and toilet.
- Never leave a baby alone in the bath or on a bed, sofa or changing table.
- Check the sleeping space: a suitable product, firm flat surface and no soft, loose objects around the baby.
- Agree supervision with other caregivers, keep emergency information accessible and arrange an up-to-date infant first aid course.
Questions to discuss with a professional
- Which safety measures suit our stairs, windows and furniture?
- How should we reorganise sleeping and play spaces as our baby develops?
- Where can caregivers take an up-to-date infant first aid course?
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave my child alone after fitting safety devices?
No. Safety devices reduce some hazards but do not replace care. They may need adjustment or become unsuitable as your child's abilities change.
Should I wait until my baby starts crawling?
Do not put off a review until a new skill appears. A baby can reach, roll or move unexpectedly. Make changes beforehand and check them regularly.
How to use this checklist
Tick the points you have discussed or prepared and add your own arrangements. Ticking a box does not confirm safety, health status or completion of a medical procedure. Revisit the checklist as your family's needs change.