• All stairway handrails are firmly attached and stairwells are well-lit.
• Safety gates closed across stairways in homes with small children.
• Stair coverings are secured anchored.
• Safe step stool available for reaching high shelving.
• Scatter rugs lay flat and are skid-proof or have a skid-proof mat underneath them.
• Entrance ways, outdoor walkways, and halls are well-lit.
• Night-lights placed en route to the bathroom for nighttime use.
• Bathtubs have non-skid strips or suction mats in them.
• Windows are equipped with safety features so children cannot fall out.

Fires, Burns, and Electricity

• Lamp, extension, and telephone cords are placed out of traffic areas.
• Electrical sockets are all the three-prong, grounded type.
• Able to turn off electrical, gas, and water sources to your home.
• Fuses/circuit breakers are labeled to the outlets and appliances they protect.
• Light switches are all in good working order.
• Wall switches and outlets have safe coverplates.
• All appliance cords and extension cords are in good condition.
• Small appliances (hair dryers, coffee pots, shavers, etc.) are unplugged when not in use.
• Flame-retardant sleepwear and bedding are used for children.
• Furnace is cleaned and serviced yearly.
• Smoking in bed or while lying down is prohibited and proper ashtrays are used.
• Chimney and smoke-pipe cleaned yearly.
• Fireplace functions properly and is adequately screened.
• Furnace and hot water heater are clear of flammable materials.
• Portable heaters are in a safe location away from flammable materials.
• Portable heaters and fans are protected with screening to prevent touching coils or blades.
• Matches are kept away from children.
• Fire escape plan is in place and has been practiced.
• Smoke detectors are installed, at least one per floor.
• Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detectors are tested monthly.
• Fire extinguisher is charged and conveniently located.

Poisoning

• Household chemicals are stored out of reach and sight of small children.
• Drugs and medicines are out of reach and sight of small children and have child-proof caps.
• Paint, paint-thinner, pesticides, and gasoline stored out of the house and away from heat.
• Alcoholic beverages are out of reach and sight of children.

Suffocations

• Baby crib prevents baby's head or clothing from becoming caught.
• Toys are suitable for children's age, are in good condition, and are safe.
• Small or sharp items are kept out of reach of children.
• Cords to mini-blinds are child-safe and out of reach.
• Plastic bags are kept out of reach of children.

Misc. Hazards

• All doors and windows close and latch properly.
• Exterior doors are secured with a deadbolt for security.
• Pool and play areas are fenced.
• Firearms are kept unloaded and out of reach of children.
• First-aid kit is well-stocked and immediately available.
• Emergency numbers are posted by all telephones.

This how to project is provided as a guideline only. Any do-it-yourself activity involves some risk and the reader remains responsible for the selection and use of tools, materials, and methods.