As a first-time mom, you’re likely facing a lot of firsts. Among those is staying home alone with your baby all day everyday. As you get settled into your new role, consider these tips to help you and your little sweet feel safe and secure:
photo by epSos.de
Create an Illusion
Even if you are pet-less, consider posting “Beware of Dog” signs around your home and yard. It may not dissuade all strangers, but it might affect a few. To make it convincing, scatter doggy toys around the lawn and place a water bowl by the front door.
Don’t Hide Extra Keys
Whether you’re rushing to a doctor’s appointment or late for a play date, you’re inevitably going to lock yourself out a time or two. Despite the inconvenience, don’t hide a spare key. Thieves know this trick and can easily spot a fake rock or key in a potted plant. Instead give a set to a trusted neighbor or friend.
Arm Your Alarm
Even if you are just running a few short errands, always remember to arm you alarm. A home security system only protects you if you turn it on. Some systems even offer smartphone apps so if by chance you forget to arm the alarm or you want to check in on your home you can do so remotely.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
You may have been too busy with work or friends before, but now that you are home fulltime, get to know your neighbors. Learn their habits: who stays home, who travels or works a lot and who is never home? You’ll not only make friends, but possibly a few allies. Consider starting a neighborhood watch to look out for each other.
Roll Up Cords
Hanging cords from blinds or appliances can be hazardous for your baby. Use a cord wrap to roll up cords and keep them out of the way. A four-pack window blind cord wrap costs about $2.50 on Amazon.
Anchor Unstable Items
As they grow and learn to explore, children like to climb on furniture. Unstable items or appliances can tip over and injure your child. Anchor heavy furniture such as TVs and bookshelves to the wall to prevent tip-over accidents.
Keep the Curtains Closed
Don’t give peeping Toms a clear view of fancy electronics, a stack of cash on the bureau or you and your baby asleep on the bed. Close the curtains or use blinds, protective film or colored glass to give you more privacy.
Eliminate Easy Points of Entry
Keep your garage door closed, your back gate locked and front door bolted – even when you’re home. Place a pipe or wooden dowel in the track of a sliding door to prevent it from being a weak point. This will also be useful when Junior starts walking and you don’t want him escaping outside to explore without you.
Careful What You Share
With Pinterest, blogs and social networking sites, it’s easy to make new friends and stay in touch with old ones. Be careful, though, about how much you share online. Don’t broadcast travel plans or your geo-specific status until you are back home from your trip.
Make Your Home Look Occupied
Whether at grandma’s house or on a 7-day cruise, always make your home look occupied while you’re away. Ask the post office to hold your mail, your neighbors to watch your home and a friend to house sit if she can. Consider leaving a radio or programmable noise maker on so passersby think you’re home.
Clean Chemical Free
Keep you and your baby away from harmful chemicals by using all natural recipes when cleaning.
- All-purpose cleaner: Combine 2 teaspoons baking soda, 4 tablespoons white vinegar and a drop of dish soap with warm water.
- Glass cleaner: Mix ¼ cup rubbing alcohol with ¼ cup white vinegar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 cups warm water.
- Dusting spray: Stir 2 teaspoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and ¼ cup white vinegar with 1 cup warm water.
Guest post by
Michelle Montgomery
Michelle is a stay-at-home mom who loves to write and do arts and crafts with her children, Terry and Mavis.
