Babyproofing the home is serious business - so serious, in fact, that some parents pay a professional to do it. You can find and follow these easy, free instructions, but if you're strapped for time and want to make doubly sure your house is hazard-free, this might be the route for you.
Here's what you need to know:
What it costs: Prices vary widely, from no charge for an initial consultation to up to $200 for two hours. If there is an up-front fee, often some of it may be applied to babyproofing products and/or installation by the babyproofer.
When to do it: Before your baby is mobile.
How to find a pro: The International Association for Child Safety (iafcs.com) maintains a searchable database of babyproofers across the country. The group doesn't evaluate each one, though, so when you call professionals in your area, ask if they can supply you with references.
