Living in Spain With Children: Indoor Safety Rules for Kids

Three days ago, the news ran all over the case of a Brazilian migrant who saved a child from a balcony in Spain. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case; statistics show these risks increase as the temperatures rise. The Spanish summer, hot and drier than usual, presents more danger to kids and toddlers living in apartments in Spain as our natural climbers attempt to explore, unable to measure the consequences behind their acts yet. Childproofing apartments, having someone to keep an eye on them constantly and teaching indoor safety rules to kids are not in vain. Ensuring the safety of your children in a compact living space, as apartments can be, especially after moving abroad, and eventually tightening up your support circle is crucial. With numerous potential hazards lurking in every corner, taking the proper steps to childproof your apartment can help prevent accidents and create a safe environment for your little ones. Read along to learn how to keep peace of mind while safeguarding your children’s well-being.

What Are 10 Safety Rules for Kids Living in Apartments?

Applying the proper steps to childproof your apartment involves creating a safe and secure environment for them without taking their right to move independently. Installing child safety locks and round corner protectors, but often the dangers rely on the outside within the curiosity most kids have to explore. Whether moving to a new country or settling into a new home, prioritising safety is vital to a happy and healthy family life. We gathered 10 Safety Rules for Kids Living in Apartments:

• Balconies and Windows: Keep all balconies and windows locked securely or install window guards. Kids love to explore as they grow, wanting to climb and look behind at every corner to check what is there. Windows can be one of the most endangering things when raising kids in apartments. Be extra careful and solve the issue by installing good-quality windows and balcony guards.
• Safety Locks on Cabinets and Drawers: Use safety locks on cabinets and drawers containing sharp objects. Ensure all cleaning supplies, medicines, and hazardous materials are stored in locked cabinets, preferably out of reach.
• Bathroom: Bathroom safety is also paramount; never leave a child unattended in the bath, and install toilet locks to prevent drowning risks.
• Stairs: If you have stairs, use secure gates at the top and bottom to prevent falls.
• Hot Items: Keep hot items and liquids away from the edges of counters and tables to prevent burns. Use fireplace guards to prevent children from accessing hot surfaces or dangerous tools.
• Children’s Independency: We tend to underestimate kids’ ability to deal with difficulties, but their problem-solving capacity is high. Teach your children how to manage risky activities, not to encourage them, but to prevent accidents, such as the right way to hold scissors or a knife to permanently protect their eyes and handle them carefully and as soon as possible to the closest adults around them.
• Hazardous Products: Choose non-toxic cleaning products and keep them locked away.
• Furniture: Secure heavy furniture, such as bookshelves and TV stands, to the wall using safety anchors or straps to prevent tipping.
• Living Kids Alone: Whether you need to collect a delivery in the lobby or use the bathroom, instruct kids on how to act in case a stranger calls at the door. Show them how to check if doors are locked and alarms are set.
• Emergency Number and Support: Give your children access and teach them how phones work to make emergency calls. It is also ideal to keep a list of family contacts they trust.

What Age Do You Need to Babyproof?

Babyproofing should begin as early as six months, typically when babies crawl and explore their surroundings. Infants are more mobile and curious at this age, increasing their risk of encountering hazards. As they grow and develop, continually assess and adjust your childproofing measures to match their abilities. For example, as children learn to walk, it’s essential to ensure that sharp edges and corners are covered and that furniture is stable to prevent tipping. Childproofing a floor involves several strategies to provide a safe play area. Use soft mats or carpets to cushion falls, especially in rooms where children spend most of their time. Install non-slip pads under rugs to prevent slipping and tripping.

Spanish Rules on Leaving Children Unattended

In Spain, there are specific regulations regarding leaving children unattended. It is generally recommended that children under 12 years of age should not be left alone at home. Children between 12 and 16 can be left alone for short periods, but it is advisable to assess the maturity and responsibility of the child before doing so. Parents must adhere to these guidelines to ensure their children’s safety and well-being.

VanOne International Movers: Securing Your Move to Spain

At VanOne International Movers, we understand that moving with children requires careful planning and consideration. We offer comprehensive house removal services throughout Europe and Brazil, specialising in safe and efficient relocation for families. From customs clearance to collecting and delivering your household belongings, our experienced team is here to support you. Whether you need door-to-door service or prefer to store your items in a warehouse, we provide flexible solutions to meet your needs. Household removals to Spain can sound particularly challenging. Still, with our expertise, you can rest assured that every detail will be handled carefully, ensuring a seamless transition for you and your family. Contact us today and get a free quote.