Here's the skinny. Our 6 month old is starting to scoot and we have two very dangerous stairs to gate off. The problem I have is with the stairway to the basement (see photo). I'm open to purchasing something I may have to modify, building something myself or possible having something fabricated.

http://latechnique.com/misc/stair.jpg

The iron rail on the left must stay, but the handrail on the right could be replaced. I've been meaning to do this anyway but just haven't had the time. I'm looking for something permanent that is attractive.

Open to any and all ideas, time is running out and the tike will be running before I know it!

Thanks,

-spence

Not having anything more than a goldfish and my gf's bird to watch in my apt., I have no practical experience in this matter; however I would suggest something that hinges the wall and latches to the railing, if it's something nice and painted black it would blend with existing railing, and you could probably leave the handrail on the stairs as well... now where to get one or how to make it? I dunno.. thats out of my realm...

How about a retractable wrought iron gate coming out of the adjacent wall?....

You know, the criss cross pattern type?...

You can always find creative ways to connect it to the wrought iron gate so your little one doesnt make it through...

I've got four at home with our youngest being almost three, so I understand your concerns!

Aplly a jam against wall. Build/ buy a gate of wood. The develop a latch for the wrought iron side.

Only your wall (jamb) will be affected.

Talk again

Try totSAFE.com

There are many companies out there who manufacture items that will not only work for you, but will compliment the existing decor as well...

A wrought iron swinging gate will work for you as well as was mentioned...

You may be able to find one similar in design as well...

Home-made
http://www.environmental-wellness.com/child-safety-gate.htm

Store-bought brands - I know its a UK site but you can find these here
http://www.babyworld.co.uk/information/products/product_tests/safetygates/stairgates_full.asp

we have a simlar set up, but less steep.

I cut a piece of 1/2" plywood about 4" wide x the height of the metal railing. I drilled 6 holes and put heavy duty wire ties to anchor it on the rail.
screw the the slide type child gate hinges to the plywood, put the seat cups on the wall (wood rail) side, and that should hold em.

This is not the prettiest set up, but it's kept my two boys from tumbling for 5yrs now.

Good luck

Hey my ex-gf got a child gate at wallyworld in westerly that you can attach to the wall with screws, and swings .Its pretty heavy duty too.

Encase the the metal rail in 1x6 . Use 3 or 4 in bolts to bolt
the wood together. On the opposite wall screw on a 1x6 3ft
to the wall. Now you can install any type of gate.

I have built a couple things like this to keep my kids safe.
If you need any help PM me.


- - SK

Don't forget relentless screaming at them.

"<kids name> NO! GET AWAY FROM THE GATE, I SAID GET AWAY FROM THE GATE, GOOD FALL THEN, THE SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS TEACHES THE BEST ANYWAY, COME ON GET AWAY FROM THE GATE"

I'm hoping we have a solution that doesn't result in that, but I can almost see it coming :D

Thanks for the comments. Very helpfull...

-spence