1. Small objects: Purchase ageappropriate toys and keep small objects out of babies’ reach.

2. Supervision: Children should be supervised at all times. In the case of babies, they should be put to sleep lying on their backs, not alone in an adult bed or on the sofa.

3. Burning and scalding: Young children should be kept out of the kitchen. They will reach for handles of pans on stoves, so use the back stove rings and turn pan handles away from the edge. Place hot drinks out of their reach and in the case of giving them a bath, to avoid burning or scalding a child, test the water temperature.

4. Fire: Fit smoke alarms in the home. Regularly inspect them to ensure they are working properly. Having a fire escape plan is integral — all family members, including children, should know what to do in case of a fire.

5. Home fixtures: Fit child safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs and keep floors free of objects that can be tripped over. Small children can get trapped by squeezing their bodies through small gaps in railings — check the width between railings, banisters, balconies, and other openings and barricade them if necessary. Ensure that electrical sockets are covered, cords are tucked away and pull cords on curtains and blinds are short and out of children’s reach. Ensure all breakable items are out of toddlers’ reach. Cover sharp edges of furniture with corner guards. Damaged or worn carpets should be repaired or removed and in the case of a stroller or high chair, always use a securely fitted safety harness. Move furniture away from windows to prevent children climbing onto them and falling out. Do not encourage your child to wave from windows as they may try to climb up and do so when unsupervised.

6. Poisoning, dangerous chemicals: Store medicines, chemicals, cleaning products, pesticides, and rat poison in their original containers and in locked, out-of-reach cupboards. Wherever possible, buy products in child-resistant containers. Avoid buying plants with poisonous leaves or berries or those that can irritate the skin.

7. Potential weapons: Keep knives, razors, sewing kits, tools, and firearms locked away.

8. Bodies of water: Paddling pools should be emptied and stored away when not in use and fences should be placed around ponds or pools. Never leave uncovered bowls or buckets of water around the home.