[laprielle]

We are adopting but the state need to still come in and see that the house is child proof. We have a fire extinguisher and locks for drawers and cabinets. They also want only surge protectors and no extension cords. Does anyone have any more suggestions on how to get my home up to par? Thanks!

[proudmomof4]

We also had to get an escape ladder because we live in a 2 story house. A baby gate would be great if you are looking to adopt toddlers.

[BlessedBe]

We didn't have to childproof the house for the homestudy.

We had to have a kitchen fire extinguisher, hot and cold running water, operating bathrooms, electricity and they just simply had to make sure that the structure of our home was sound and that we live in a safe neighborhood.

They don't do "white glove" tests so don't go all out and clean out closets and such - they probably won't be looking in there!

Do you have working smoke detectors? Make sure you have one on each floor of your house AND one in an attached garage if your house has one.

Don't stress the home visit. It's really not that bad!

[blessedbybug]

Originally Posted by laprielle

We are adopting but the state need to still come in and see that the house is child proof. We have a fire extinguisher and locks for drawers and cabinets. They also want only surge protectors and no extension cords. Does anyone have any more suggestions on how to get my home up to par? Thanks!

other items we had to do...

a locked medicine cabinet (we bought a toolbox and padlock... $7)

smoke detectors that work

floor plan with all primary exits (doors) and alternate exits (windows) marked and a fire escape plan

outlet plugs

secure furniture (ie, tall bookshelves or dressers)

all cleaning supplies and toxic chemicals in locked cabinet. We put a lock on our storage room and garage... all on upper shelves.

That's just what I can think of right now... good luck!