6 Essential Habits I Developed as a Pediatrician After Witnessing Too Many Tragedies

When you have children—or let’s be honest, a slightly awkward partner—your home might start feeling like an accident waiting to happen.

Ensuring they stay clear of the stove and childproofing the edges of the coffee table may not suffice, since common objects such as chairs and pots can turn into potential hazards.

After witnessing "too many tragedies," pediatrician Dr. Niky uploaded a TikTok where she revealed three actions she consistently takes at home to ensure her three children stay safe from danger.

Following the post that garnered more than 100,000 likes, she proceeded with another video Of three additional safety hazards — and it likely does precautions Most moms and dads wouldn't consider.

Do not let them access items with a drawstring.

That worn-out gym bag you toss onto the sofa certainly won't cause any harm, will it? Incorrect.

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That's because your curious child might take the string and loop it around their neck for play, potentially leading to choking hazards, as she pointed out.

"Sadly, by the time you realize something is amiss, it might already be too late," she stated.

The same rule applies to items powered by button batteries. See Also Watch out for 'granny's purse syndrome' — doctor cautions about risky method grandparents might unintentionally put children in danger.

This holds particularly true if the button detaches effortlessly, since it poses a choking risk.

"If your child ingests a button battery, administer honey if they are older than one year," she recommended. "For those under one year old, no honey , simply head to the emergency room."

Honey can assist in coating the battery, thus neutralizing certain alkaline components that might cause burns and harm tissues. It’s important to note that honey should be avoided for infants due to potential botulism risks.

Do not drape a coat or sweater over the rear of a chair.

"It’s incredibly thrilling when your toddler manages to grab an object they’re reaching for, but it’s also quite simple for that same chair to topple over onto them," she clarified.

That’ll end in tears.

Ensure that the handles of pots and pans are turned towards the side.

Should you leave the handle within reach, your child might accidentally hit it, leading to possible injuries and scorching, which could spoil mealtime.

Place mugs and bowls at the center of the countertop.

This holds particularly true when they include hot liquids since these containers can readily tip over, leading to burns and—surprise, surprise—even more crying.

Cut up grape tomatoes

It may seem counterintuitive, but allowing your child to attempt swallowing an entire piece whole could lead to a potential choking risk. This applies equally to other food items of comparable size and form.

Over 2,100 kids in the U.S. died From 1999 to 2013, choking incidents were most commonly associated with hot dogs, candies, and grapes leading the list of culprits.

The CDC has a lengthy list of foods To minimize the risks, include items such as whole fruits and veggies, nuts, sausages, string cheese, beans, fish with bones, granola bars, and popcorn. marshmallows .