Archives for Home Safety category

Having an 0800 number for safety

Posted: Nov 06, 2008 | Category: Home Safety

The world is changing at a relentless pace and for parents it must be a worrying place. Just look at the UK and how much knife crime has increased in the last 24 months.

Children all seem to have the very latest gadgets, so is it any wonder they are targets for criminals? One idea that I have thought about is parents possibly giving their children an emergency 0800 number to use?

As a parent, you know that at any time of day your child get hold of you via this 0800 number should they be facing an emergency of some description. Now I am not saying that having an 0800 number will save a life, but you never know when it may be needed or indeed used.

I Personally have an 0800 number that I give it to those closest to me. I know that at any time they can call me without any problems. Safety or money? I know where my preference lies any day of the week.


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Keeping Play Areas Safe

Posted: Mar 20, 2008 | Category: Home Safety

Ankle Injuries are very common due to discarded toysAlthough a number of Chinese manufactured toys have recently been recalled, due to fears for child safety, most toy related injuries in the home are actually experienced by adults who trip over toys that have been left lying around. Here are some suggestions that will help to keep your children’s play areas safe for children and adults:

Stay Tidy: Easy to say, not so easy to do when you have several little ones to contend with. Try to get the children into the habit of returning their toys to the toy box or cupboard.

Be Vigilant:
Inevitably toys will be left lying around and you are likely to encounter one of these at the top of the stairs when your arms are full of washing! Always look first and try to encourage your children to be aware of the trip hazard presented by toys left in dangerous locations by doorways, stairs, in the kitchen etc.

Dispose of Broken Toys: Have a routine clear out of the toy box or cupboard discarding any damaged or worn toys.

Change Batteries Regularly: Don’t put fresh batteries alongside old ones in battery operated toys as this can cause old batteries to heat up dangerously.

Keep Toys Away from Heat: Don’t leave toys in front of the fire, on radiators or near to any heat source.

Provide a Designated Play Area: Not everyone has the luxury of space, but if possible provide a clearly defined play area and try to keep all toys within this area.

Outdoor Toys: Most outdoor toys, climbing frames, swings, slides etc. are designed and built for children up to a specified age. As an adult you should avoid having a go yourself. Also, make certain that the areas around swings, slides, climbing frames etc. are kept clear, are adequately padded (grass rather than concrete) and there is plenty of room for people to walk past while the toy is in use.

Swimming Pool Toys: If you have a pool with some inflatable toys remove them from the water and stow safely when play has finished.

Hopefully these simple suggestions will help to make your home that little bit safer.


For the best in traditional and wooden toys visit Mulberry Bush, the reputable online toy store with an outstanding selection of great toys and games for children of all ages.


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