Our toddler has learned to reach the handle and we’ve had a couple of “front door nearly opened” scares. Any hacks to make doors kid‑resistant without turning them into a puzzle for adults or compromising fire safety?
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We stuck a removable decal at kid eye level on the glass near the handle. It reminded our little one the door was “special” and needed an adult—surprisingly effective cue.
We raised the deadbolt height on the main door (some doors allow this), added a high chain/door guard for when we’re home, and installed door handle covers inside on rooms we don’t want explored. For exits, you still want quick adult egress, so keep at least one path that’s single‑action to get out in an emergency. Window latches with child‑safe restrictors helped too. A locksmith can suggest hardware that slows curious hands without locking you in. In Melbourne, I asked about options; they were good at balancing safety and convenience and checked that our choices wouldn’t break any local requirements. Also, add a simple alarm chime that pings when a door opens—great daytime backup.