Before birth
Install carbon monoxide + smoke detectors on every floor, fresh batteries.
Set water heater to 120°F max to prevent scalds.
Wash baby clothes in fragrance-free detergent and store within easy reach.
Crawling stage (6–9 mo)
Crawl your home — anything you see at that level is fair game.
Outlet covers, cabinet locks (cleaning + medicine first), corner bumpers on coffee tables.
Anchor every dresser, bookshelf, and TV to the wall.
Move cleaning products and meds to a locked top cabinet, even ones you 'always close.'
Walking & toddler stage
Gates at top AND bottom of stairs — hardware mounted at the top.
Cord shorteners on blinds, stove-knob covers, oven lock.
Toilet locks and a hook-and-eye latch on the bathroom door.