New Research Reveals the Majority of Parents Overlook Key Steps to Keep Curious Toddlers Sa...( WASHINGTON July 27 /- New...),Health

WASHINGTON, July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- New research by the national, nonprofit Home Safety Council (HSC) reveals that the vast majority of parents (83 percent) admit that they have left their toddler unsupervised in the home -- for a few moments, or even longer. The survey polled parents of children between the ages of 2 and 4 and found that while almost all had taken some steps to childproof their home, very few have successfully kept their toddlers from getting into dangerous situations.

Keeping-up with curious toddlers isn't easy. In fact, nearly nine out of ten parents surveyed report that their toddler has gotten into trouble the moment their back was turned, underscoring the necessity for constant and close supervision. The survey shows that nearly three-quarters of toddlers have climbed on furniture, and more than half have been caught taking items from a purse or climbing out of the crib.

"Toddlers are smarter, faster and more curious than they were as babies. Things in your home that didn't pose a threat to your infant could injure your toddler in the blink of an eye," said Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council. "Staying one step ahead of your child is the key to preventing injury. As soon as your baby starts standing-up in the crib or attempting those first steps, it's time to get down on your hands and knees and take a second look at the safety of your home from your toddler's point-of-view. Inspect each room to spot the hazards that need to be fixed."

Toddler Safety Tips

To help parents stay one step ahead, the Home Safety Council recommends taking a room-by-room approach to fix potential dangers before toddlers are fully mobile. At the first signs of sitting and pulling-up, parents need to take a second look at the safety of their home. Baby-proofing was a good start, but toddler-proofing is different and just as critical. Follow the simple sa
'/>"/>