Gate Smarts

• Install safety gates in doorways and in front of stairs.



• There are two types of gates:
  • pressure mounted: simple to install, inexpensive, and easily moved
  • hardware mounted gates: literally screwed into the wall
  Pressure mounted gates are usually all you need in doorways, but safety experts recommend hardware mounted ones for the top of steps.



• When shopping for gates look for an ASTM/JPMA seal to certify that the gate meets voluntary safety requirements. If possible, opt for a walk through door that swings in both directions. It may cost a little more, but you won't have to climb over the gate with a baby in your arms.



• Remember, never leave more than one or two inches of space between the floor and the bottom of the gate so your child can't slip an arm or a leg underneath it.



• Remove gates once your child turns 2, weighs 30 pounds or is 36 inches tall (a gate should be at least three-quarters of the child's height), or if the child learns to open the gate or climb over it.

Information provided by PARENTING.COM

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