Gate safety has been on the national agenda for a while now, particularly when it comes to pools. But how much do you know about gate safety? Could your old child safety gates actually be dangerous?
Toddlers are notoriously curious about everything. When your children were finally able to get around on their own, you did the right thing and installed safety gates to protect them from harm. But gate technology and ‘best practice’ theories are changing all the time. Is it time to check whether the gates you installed a few years ago are still up to standard?
Determining if your current gates are safe enough
There are a number of issues that can lessen the effectiveness of safety gates. Here’s our Top 4:
1. The gate bars are too far apart, making it easy for toddlers to get through the gate;
2. The gate doesn’t automatically close with an audible click, allowing toddlers to push them open;
3. The gate is made of materials that are too flimsy, and toddlers can easily pull them open;
4. Toddlers can find footholds in the gate, making it easy to climb.
If any of these sound familiar, it is definitely time for you to get new safety gates to ensure your toddler is fully protected. At Fence Corp, we have a range of options designed to keep your children safe.
What to look for in a new gate
There is a wide range of options available when looking to install new safety gates. We’ve come up with a few of the best options to protect your children from harm. Ensure that the gates are at least 60 centimetres tall so your children won’t be able to climb over them.
• Ensure that all safety gates are securely fastened to the wall, fence or the door frame so that toddlers can’t pull them out. Gates that are screwed into the wall are much safer than flimsy alternatives, like pressure mounted baby gates.
• Ensure that they are made from solid materials that will support the weight of your child.
• Ensure that there is nothing for your child to get their fingers or toes caught in, or any footholds for them to grab onto.
• Ensure that they are fitted with the best security measures, such as a very secure lock, or even coded entry or intercoms.
• Ensure you use a qualified fence builder who understands the latest Australian safety standards for household fences and gates.
Gate safety is something you can’t afford to relax about when it comes to your family!