If you have visits from your new grandchildren scheduled for the New Year, you can childproof your home with a few simple precautions and make it safe for that little one who is beginning to crawl or toddle around. Here are some tips from Sue and Beth at www.grandloving.com.

Be sure to take time to:

• Cover outlets. The slide over type are best as the others can cause choking.

• Put kiddy locks on low cupboard doors where needed.

• Be sure crib meets the new standards -- Slats should be 2 3/8 inches apart. Mattress should fit snugly; Cribs should have no corner post extensions or decorative cut outs on the headboard. The website, www.dannyfoundation.org, has good crib safety information.

• Take all toys and pillows out of the crib.

• Put baby in crib foot to foot.

• Install window guards where needed.

• Coil and tie up all cords.

• Install smoke alarm outside bedrooms near the floor. 

• Gate stairs.

• Be careful of hot liquids and iron cords.

• Keep cleaning supplies high and locked.

• Avoid burns in the bathroom by turning water down to 120 degrees.

• Lock toilet top with toilet guard.

• Cover sharp table edges – a slit tennis ball works well!

Stock up on the following while children are visiting:

• Digital thermometer with Vaseline.

• Tylenol.

• Motrin after 6 months.

• Hydrocortisone crème.

And if driving your little one, be sure to have the car seat checked by police. Until 1 year or 20 lbs, baby must face the rear

For more excellent ideas, visit www.safekids.org.

By Sue Johnson and Beth Bower. Ideas taken from Grandchildren: Making Memories with Your Grandchildren, 4^th edition. www.grandloving.com