Safe Environment

Functional Area 1 focuses on providing a safe environment to prevent and reduce injuries.

Indoor Safety

Supervision:

• Maintain appropriate adult-child ratios
• Position yourself to see all children
• Do head counts frequently
• Never leave children unattended

Recommended Ratios (vary by state):

Physical Environment Safety

Furniture and Equipment:

• Age-appropriate sizes
• Sturdy and in good repair
• Anchored shelves and equipment
• Rounded corners preferred
• Meets safety standards (CPSC, ASTM)

Floor Safety:

• Non-slip surfaces
• Clear of tripping hazards
• Soft areas for infants and toddlers
• Clean and sanitary

Electrical Safety:

• Outlet covers on unused outlets
• Cords secured and out of reach
• Equipment in good working order

Hazard Prevention

Emergency Preparedness

Required Plans:

• Fire evacuation (with practice drills)
• Tornado/weather emergencies
• Lockdown procedures
• Medical emergencies

Emergency Supplies:

• First aid kit (stocked and accessible)
• Emergency contact information
• Flashlight and batteries
• Emergency evacuation bag

Drills:

• Fire drills monthly (some states require more)
• Document all drills
• Practice different exit routes
• Include children in planning when appropriate

Outdoor Safety

Playground Requirements:

• Age-appropriate equipment
• Soft fall surfaces (wood chips, rubber, sand)
• 6-inch fall zone around equipment
• Regular safety inspections
• Fenced area with secure gates

Active Supervision Outdoors:

• Scan the entire area
• Move around the space
• Anticipate potential hazards
• Position near high-risk areas

Safe Sleep (Infant Settings)

SIDS Prevention - Safe Sleep ABCs:

• Alone in crib
• Back to sleep
• Crib is empty (no blankets, toys, bumpers)

Additional Guidelines:

• Firm, flat mattress with fitted sheet
• Room temperature 68-72°F
• Visible sleeping infant at all times
• Alternate head position to prevent flat spots