🪜 Preventing falls at home

Before you put baby down

• Gather diapers, wipes and clothes first; a changing mat on a clear floor can reduce fall risk.
• Check stair gates, high-chair harnesses and window restrictors regularly.
• Anchor furniture and televisions using suitable fixings and qualified installation help if needed.

Make everyday spaces safer

1. 1. Change baby within reach

   On a changing table, keep a hand on baby and stay beside them. If something is missing, take baby with you or move them to a safe floor-level space.

2. 2. Use seats as designed

   Fasten the high chair's full harness every time, including the crotch strap. Use it only when developmentally appropriate, and keep it away from surfaces a child could push against. Never put a bouncer or car seat on a table.

3. 3. Protect stairs

   Fit suitable gates at the top and bottom, following installation instructions. Use a hardware-mounted gate at the top rather than a pressure-fit gate. Keep stairs clear and do not use wheeled baby walkers.

4. 4. Secure windows and balconies

   Move climbable furniture away from windows and balcony rails. Fit suitable restrictors or guards while preserving emergency escape. Insect screens do not prevent falls; supervise balcony access.

5. 5. Respond carefully after a fall

   Seek medical advice for a concerning fall or head injury. Call 911 for loss of consciousness, seizures, breathing difficulty or marked floppiness. Avoid unnecessary movement if a neck or spine injury is suspected, unless needed for immediate safety or lifesaving care.

Classic mistakes

• ❌ Relying on cushions to stop a fall Pillows do not make an unattended bed or sofa safe and can create suffocation hazards.

Same topic

• 🍬 Preventing choking and swallowing hazards
• 🛁 Water safety and drowning prevention
• 🧴 Preventing household poisoning
• 🔥 Preventing burns in the kitchen and daily life

Read next

• 🧸 Babyproofing the house (when baby goes mobile)
• 🚨 Getting trained in infant & child first aid