While there are reports of some cuts or minor burns, there is no safety device, as yet, to "pad" or block off these heating sources. Padding, infact, might become a serious fire hazard. Most small, stick-on corners found in stores are quickly picked off by little fingers and then could become a choking hazard. One idea would be to construct a vented, rounded-corner cover to fasten to the wall, much like the radiator covers in older homes. Another thought, would be to put furniture pieces, (chairs down on their side) in front of and not up against the heaters, to reduce the access and interest in being in these areas.

Simply, yes. Most people find that the bottom of the stairs, especially on the main level, is one of the most stressful parts of the house when it comes to supervising toddlers. While trying to cook, or speak on the phone or sit down to relax, the little one is always crawling off and starting up the stairs. Often, this is before the care giver has a chance to notice they are gone. A gate at the bottom of the main stairway of a home, however, is often not very convenient for the adults or older children in a home. When possible, given the layout of the rooms, I try to have my clients think of placing gates at the kitchen and using the doors or gates in entrances to other rooms, to keep toddlers away from the hallway and stair areas.

Since injuries due to falling are statistically the most likely reason why every parent in North America will make a visit to an emergency room with each of their children, why not reduce the likely-hood of such an injury in an area you know could be dangerous? Toddlers will learn how to use the stairs as you take the time to show them while you go up and down the stairs with them in your daily activities.

Anything wrapped in plastic, sharp, pointed, small or heavy objects are potential dangers. While many parents let children play with pots and pans because they do not seem to be dangerous, they might reconsider. From the perspective of a child who is allowed to play with a pot and then sees that very same pot full of boiling water on the stove, how would they know the difference.