Child & Pet Proofing your Garden Fence
Child and pet proofing your garden fence is essential for ensuring their safety and preventing any potential accidents or escapes. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
Check for Gaps and Holes: Regularly inspect your fence for any gaps, holes, or weak spots that a child or pet could squeeze through or get stuck in. Repair any damages promptly.
Install a Solid Fence: Opt for a solid fence design without widely spaced pickets or gaps between slats. This prevents children and pets from slipping through or getting their heads stuck.
Choose the Right Height: Make sure your fence is tall enough to prevent climbing or jumping over, depending on the size and agility of your pets. A minimum height of 4 to 6 feet is recommended.
Use Smooth Materials: Avoid fences with rough or splintered surfaces that could injure children or pets. Smooth materials like vinyl or composite are safer options.
Secure Gates: Ensure that gates are securely locked at all times, preferably with childproof latches. Consider installing self-closing hinges to prevent them from being accidentally left open.
Add Barrier Fencing: For additional protection, install barrier fencing inside the main fence to create a buffer zone and prevent direct access to the fence itself.
Remove Climbable Objects: Trim back any overhanging branches or vegetation near the fence that could provide a foothold for climbing. Remove objects like stacked firewood or furniture that could be used for climbing.
Consider Digging Barriers: If you have pets that like to dig, consider installing barriers like chicken wire or hardware cloth buried underground along the base of the fence to prevent digging escapes.
Provide Supervision: Always supervise young children and pets while they are in the garden, especially if the fence isn't completely child or pet-proof.
Training and Boundaries: Train pets to understand boundaries and not to dig, chew, or jump on the fence. Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation to reduce the likelihood of escape attempts.
By implementing these measures, you can create a safer environment for both children and pets in your garden, minimising the risk of accidents or escapes through the fence.