7 Ways to Childproof Your Backyard Gate Without a Full Security System
How To Keep Your Backyard Safe and Secure?
Backyards should be safe, fun spaces where kids can play freely — not areas of concern for wandering toddlers or safety risks. But if your backyard gate isn’t secured properly, it can quickly become a hazard. The good news? You would not need an expensive, wired security system to childproof your gate with Yardlock.
With the right strategies and advanced products, you can create a safer outdoor environment for your family. Here’s how to childproof your backyard gate effectively — without the high cost or hassle of a full security setup.
1. Install a Child-Safe Keyless Gate Lock
The first and most effective step is to secure your gate with a keyless locking system that eliminates the risk of lost keys or unlocked latches.
✅ Recommended Product:
Yardlock® Keyless Gate Lock for Wooden Fences
This tamper-proof, weather-resistant lock installs easily and is mounted high enough to stay out of reach for children, making it a perfect choice for childproofing your gate.
Why it's ideal:
- No batteries or Wi-Fi required
- Opens only via combination
- Mounts on the inside of the gate — no external access
How Does Gatelock Work?
2. Raise the Gate Latch Height
If you have a traditional gate latch, one quick and effective solution is to relocate it higher — ideally 54 inches from the ground, as recommended by child safety standards. This makes it difficult for small children to reach and open.
Pro tip: Combine a high latch with a Yardlock for double-layer protection.
Read More: Best Gate Locks for Wooden Gates in 2025
3. Install a Gate Stopper or Spring Closer
An automatic gate closer ensures your gate shuts every time — even if someone forgets. Add a gate stopper to prevent it from swinging too far open or slamming shut.
This reduces the chance of your child slipping out while the gate is ajar or getting pinched.
4. Block Climbable Areas Near the Gate
Children are clever climbers. Make sure there are no stacked items, planters, or furniture near the gate that can be used as a boost. Clear the area of anything that could help them gain height and access the latch.
5. Reinforce the Fence Structure
If your gate is wobbly or the latch doesn’t align well, it’s a safety risk. Tighten loose panels, secure hinges, and check for gaps your child could squeeze through.
For enhanced durability, Yardlock also offers a Vinyl Gate Lock Kit specifically designed for vinyl and plastic fencing systems.
6. Use Visual and Verbal Warnings
Teach your kids that the gate is a no-go zone by reinforcing the message with both verbal boundaries and visual cues — like a "Stop" or "Do Not Enter" sticker.
You can even add a simple child warning sign to make others aware that a child-safe zone is in place.
7. Lock Your Shed and Side Gates Too
Don't forget about sheds and side gates, which are often overlooked. These areas can contain tools, chemicals, or sharp objects.
✅ Secure it with:
Yardlock® Shed Lock with Combination Access
Built for outdoor use, it provides keyless security for any outbuilding or storage space — and helps keep little explorers safe.
Combine Multiple Layers for Maximum Child Safety
Explore Child-Safe Security Products at Yardlock
At Yardlock, we design products that put security, simplicity, and safety first — with no keys to lose, batteries to replace, or apps to install. Whether you're childproofing a backyard, locking up a shed, or upgrading a side gate, we've got a solution.
Shop our gate and shed locks here
