Keeping your Saskatoon home safe is more than locking the front door. When you’ve got small kids or pets, everything changes — the furniture layout, cabinet access, even the type of flooring matters. Hazards that seem minor for adults can become serious risks for a crawling toddler or an overly curious dog.
Thankfully, there’s a lot you can do without major renovations. Many basic handyman repairs can significantly improve safety without changing how you use your home.
Kids and pets are explorers. They crawl under furniture, chew on cords, climb what shouldn’t be climbed, and tug on anything that dangles. While homes may appear “safe enough,” most aren’t built with these unpredictable little ones in mind. Loose handrails, unsecured TVs, and exposed cords are all common risks — and they’re easy to overlook until an accident happens.
There’s no one-size-fits-all checklist, but certain updates are proven to reduce household hazards for both children and pets. Hiring a professional handyman ensures these fixes are handled properly — with safety and durability in mind.
Tall shelves, dressers, and TV stands should be anchored to the wall to prevent tipping. This is especially important in kids’ rooms and living areas where climbing is likely. A handyman can also safely mount TVs to walls, hiding cords and securing brackets properly into studs.
Little hands (and paws) are surprisingly good at getting into places they shouldn’t. Whether it’s under the sink or inside the tool drawer, adding locks can prevent access to cleaning products, sharp tools, batteries, and other dangerous household items. Your handyman can install invisible magnetic locks or traditional hardware to fit your needs.
Off-the-shelf gates often don’t fit perfectly — especially around custom staircases or open-concept designs. That’s where a handyman comes in. They can install wall-anchored baby gates or pet barriers that are more secure and blend better with your home’s design.
Exposed wires are one of the most overlooked hazards in family homes. Pets chew, kids pull — and suddenly you’ve got a serious issue. A handyman can conceal cords with wall covers, install outlet plugs, and replace damaged switch plates. For older homes, they can also update or replace loose or sparking outlets.
Loose handrails, wide banister gaps, and uneven steps are another common danger. Handymen can reinforce railings, close large gaps with custom-fit panels or spindles, and ensure that all stairs are even and safe to walk on — even for four legs or two wobbly feet.
Saskatoon’s winter boots, spilled water bowls, and running kids don’t mix well with smooth flooring. Anti-slip strips can be added to stairs, area rugs can be properly secured, and water-resistant mats can help reduce slips in entryways and kitchens. Your handyman can also recommend pet-friendly flooring fixes that won’t break the bank.
Windows that open too wide or doors that slam shut are both real concerns. Safety latches on windows and slow-close devices on interior doors are subtle but powerful upgrades. A handyman can also adjust sliding doors and add protective bumpers to keep little fingers safe.
By focusing on these small but essential updates, you’re creating a space where your family can relax and enjoy life without constantly worrying about accidents waiting to happen. It’s not about baby-proofing or pet-proofing everything — it’s about identifying real hazards and making practical changes that last.
All The Fixings offers Saskatoon homeowners professional handyman services designed to improve home safety with care and precision. Whether you’re expecting a new baby, welcoming a rescue pup, or simply want a safer home environment, we’re ready to help.
