6 ways to toddler-proof your home

The transition from baby to toddler is an exciting time. However, for parents it is also one of the most worrying. According to the Child Accident Prevention Trust, over two million children are taken to hospital each year after having an accident and approximately half of these happen in the home.

While toddlers are blissfully unaware of the dangers that hide behind every door and in every room, it is vital that parents are clued up on these potential dangers and most importantly how to remove them.

1. Seeing the world through a child's eyes is a good way for parents to be more aware of the possible danger points and make their home safe. Get down on your hands and knees and look out for sharp corners, plug sockets, trip hazards, falling objects and anything that can be opened easily - such as drawers and cupboards. You will often spot things that you wouldn't even notice when standing.

2. The kitchen is one of the most hazardous rooms in the home; toddlers are at risk from burns and scalds, potential poisoning accidents and also a place where sharp objects lurk. Prevent burnt fingers by using the back burners on your hob rather than the front ones. Store cleaning products in wall cupboards so they are out of reach, make sure the cap is turned to the 'off' position and where possible buy products which have child safety lids. Try to limit the number of utensils you use, so you don't lose track of any or risk knocking one on the floor.

3. Sharp corners, fireplaces, cables, wires and plug sockets - the dangers soon add up in the lounge. Always use a fire guard, even if you have an electric fire, as the heat of the glass can still cause serious burns to a child. Remove temptation from your little one by moving vases, ornaments and photo frames out of reach and keep wires away from little hands to prevent your explorer pulling on them.

4. Now your little adventurer can get around, the stairs seem like a fun place to play but falling down them is one of the most common toddler accidents. Choose a wall-mounted safety gate for the top of the stairs - which is screwed directly into the wall and doesn't have a bar running along the bottom - potentially becoming a trip hazard at the top of the stairs. A pressure fit or wall mounted safety gate can also be used at the bottom of the stairs.

5. Once your child moves from a cot to a bed they then have the freedom of the bedroom - even when you're not there! Move all creams and lotions out of easily accessible drawers or use a drawer lock to keep them out of reach and ensure that nappy bags are also stored securely. For the times when your little one is actually sleeping, a soft sided bed rail will prevent falls from the new bed.

6. As children become more independent and curious, the toilet often becomes a new toy and the bathroom a favoured playground. Use a toilet lid lock to prevent valuables being lost down the toilet; it is also fundamental you make sure that all bottles and medicines are stored away in a locked cabinet. Radiators and towel rails are also something to be aware of as these can easily burn and remember that children can drown in as little as one inch of water so it is critical that your child doesn't enter the bathroom without your knowledge.

Many everyday household items that we don't consider as intriguing or new are like pieces of buried treasure to a toddler. This curiosity is what can lead to both minor and serious accidents. By simply going round your house room by room and eliminating these hazards makes for a much safer environment for both you and your child.

Lindam has created an interactive house to highlight the potential hazards that may be present in the family home and showcase how and where their award-winning safety products can be used. Log on to www.Lindam.com and take the virtual tour. You can also find further information and product advice on safeguarding your home.