Securing Smiles: A Comprehensive Safety Guide for Child-Friendly Short-Term Rentals

Alfer
Bed & Breakfast
Published in
3 min readSep 28, 2023
Photo by Adi Lica on Unsplash

Creating a safe environment for families is essential for building a reputable short-term rental business. Below is a comprehensive guide to implementing safety measures that protect children and adults alike, enhancing your property’s appeal to families and minimizing risks.

1. Install and Maintain Detectors

  • Placement: Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every room.
  • Maintenance: Regularly test the detectors and replace batteries to ensure functionality.

2. Provide Safety Devices

  • Baby Gates: Install gates to block access to potentially dangerous areas.
  • Cabinet Locks & Outlet Covers: Use these to prevent accidents and injuries.

3. Regular Safety Inspections

  • Frequency: Conduct inspections routinely to identify and rectify potential hazards.
  • Comprehensive Checks: Focus on the overall structural and functional integrity of the property.

4. Furniture and Object Safety

  • Anchoring Furniture: Secure furniture to prevent tip-overs.
  • Remove Fragile Objects: Keep breakables out of reach to avoid accidents.

5. Safe Storage of Cleaning Products

  • Lockable Cabinets: Store cleaning products in locked cabinets or high shelves.
  • Alternative Products: Consider using child-safe cleaning products.

6. Electrical Safety

  • Appliance Check: Regularly inspect appliances for damage or fraying.
  • Outlet Maintenance: Ensure all electrical outlets are in optimal working condition.

7. First Aid and Emergency Contacts

  • Accessible First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on the premises.
  • Emergency Contacts: Provide a list of local hospitals and emergency services.

8. Clear and Concise House Rules

  • Safety Guidelines: Include rules like no running on stairs, no jumping on furniture, and supervised swimming.
  • Visibility: Display the house rules prominently within the rental property.

9. Window Safety

  • Install Guards or Locks: These prevent falls and enhance overall safety.
  • Regular Inspection: Ensure the window locks are functional and secure.

10. Compliance with Lead Laws

  • Visual Inspections: Conduct at least one inspection per year.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed and comply with local lead laws and regulations.

11. Advertise as Child-Friendly

  • Marketing Advantage: Highlighting the child-friendly nature of your property can increase family bookings.
  • Transparency: Clearly list all safety features on your property listing.

Conclusion

Ensuring the safety of your guests is not just a responsibility but also a strategic business move. By diligently implementing these measures, you not only create a safer environment but also boost your property’s appeal to families, ultimately contributing to your business’s success. Stay proactive, and remember: safety is an ongoing commitment!

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified professional or legal counsel to address your specific circumstances.

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Alfer
Bed & Breakfast

Hi I'm Alfer. I'm an outdoor junkie and loves to write about travel, vacation rentals, remote work, accounting and finance trends, & Tech. :)