It is essential to keep children safe around household appliances. Children are curious by nature, so it’s up to parents and caregivers to limit dangers within the home. Here are some key tips to help your kids stay safe around household appliances.

Limit Access to Appliances

One of the most straightforward appliance safety steps is to limit access. If you can, locate appliances behind doors that lock and keep them secured when not in use.

If you can’t limit access with a door, try to place appliances out of reach where possible. If kids can’t access an appliance, it poses much less danger.

Secure Appliances

Larger moveable appliances can tip over if children try to climb or pull on them. Appliances that pose a tip-over risk include:

• Refrigerators
• Washers
• Dryers
• Stoves

Anchoring appliances with wall brackets or straps can reduce this risk. Call your local appliance repair company if you need help anchoring an appliance.

Use Childproofing Tools

In many cases, you can also childproof appliances with purpose-made tools to secure doors and controls. These include:

• Knob covers for stovetop controls
• Slide locks or button straps for refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers
• Heatproof manual door locks for ovens

Some newer appliances also have built-in childproofing features. If you’re in the market for a new machine, you can look for one with integrated safeguards. 

Educate Children in the Household

Teaching children about appliance safety is one of the best ways to avoid danger. It’s never too early to begin modeling safety practices or teaching kids not to touch appliance controls, burners, or doors. 

If children in the household can use appliances, ensure they know how to do so safely. It’s also helpful to teach them what to do in an emergency so that they stay as safe as possible if something goes wrong.

Stay On Top of Appliance Maintenance

Keeping appliances in good condition is essential for safety. A broken appliance is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous.

For example, electrical issues, overheating components, and malfunctioning temperature gauges can pose significant fire hazards. The best way to ensure the safety of your home and family is to call an appliance repair professional when you notice an issue.

If you need help with appliance safety measures or childproofing in Morris County, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re here to help keep your appliances working correctly, no matter the problem. With over 50 years of combined experience, we provide service for any brand and model of appliance. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!