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Safety gates keep kids safe
In Canada, about 40 per cent of the injuries that involved baby gates involve children younger than one year. Safety gates are used to prevent infants and toddlers from falling down stairs or as a barrier between rooms. There are two types of gates - hardware mounted gates and pressure mounted gates. Hardware mounted gates are secured to door jams or walls with screws and plates. Pressure mounted gates are held in place by a pressure bar applied to a door frame.
Here's how using gates can help reduce the risk of falls to your child:
Install safety gates properly
Gates should always be installed and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. The locking mechanisms should always be placed on the side away from the child. Hardware mounted gates should be installed at the top and bottom of the stairs.
Use the correct gates
Once your child's chin is in line with the top of the gate or when he or she is two years old, the gate is no longer effective. A child may attempt to jump or climb over the gate. Teach children, two years and older to climb stairs and practice with them until they are able to climb independently. Remind family members and friends to close the gate.
For more information on gates visit Consumer Product Safety, Health Canada or call 1-866-662-0666.
