Children live in their own fantasy world and are seldom bothered by the happenings around them. They are so engrossed in their lively routine that they are not really aware of their safety and security. Parents have to keep an eye on them to ensure their kids stay away from danger. If you live in a flat that has a balcony, and have kids or toddlers who play there, childproofing the balcony should be downright essential. We will look at some ways to childproof a balcony in the following part. Steps to Childproof Your Balcony Even though you ensure that your child won't go alone to the balcony, do some kind of fencing to make it childproof because you never know when a situation might occur where you won't even get time to think, and your child might meet an accident. I do not want to scare you but you should realize the need to childproof the balcony. Let me suggest some options for childproofing your balcony, and then we will look at steps to install a fence or a protective covering over your balcony. There are three types of protective shields that are popularly used to make a balcony childproof . One is a transparent balcony shield which is attractive, durable and safe. It is cheaper than other types of fencing. A Plexiglas or Lexan is another type of protective shield that is also safe and attractive. But the only aspect about this type of shield is that it is not readily available, so you need to place an order to get it and a professional to install it. If you want to install it yourself, you need to know basic carpentry skills. To fence the balcony railings with deck netting and Plexiglas, here is a list of things you will require:

• Zip ties
• Tape measure
• Deck netting
• Plexiglas
• Screwdriver
• Screws

Steps: Step 1 Measure the width of the balcony railings i.e., the gap between the two vertical or horizontal wood or metal stripes (depending on the pattern of your railings). Also check the distance between the railing and the floor because this will prevent your child from slipping through the gaps or throwing objects through the railings. The openings of the railings should not be more than 4 inches wide, as the child can squeeze through them, or be able to put out his hand to throw things down. Step 2 Wider gaps (more than 4 inches) need to be covered with a Plexiglas that is available at most home improvement stores. You can cut the glass with a table saw according to the required measurements or, if you are not confident to do it yourself, you can get it done by a carpenter. Step 3 Now you can run the deck netting roll over the railing and attach it with zip ties at the railing posts. Use a screwdriver to fix screws to the netting. Your child might be curious about the new installation and the small squares of the net, but will soon get used to it and continue his/her activities. You can also use plastic sheeting or a garden fence to childproof your balcony. But the gaps that exceed 4 inches, need to be covered with Plexiglas. Lastly, do not place benches, chairs near the railings which will prevent the kid from climbing on the railing. Do not rely completely on the fencing and leave your child unattended in the balcony. Think wisely and childproof your home before the child begins to explore his/her surroundings.