Parents have an endless list of responsibilities, and with so much going on, it’s easy to forget things. While most oversights are harmless, some can have terrifying consequences. A moment of forgetfulness can put a child in danger, sometimes with life-altering results. These mistakes don’t always happen due to negligence—often, they occur simply because parents are overwhelmed, distracted, or running on autopilot.

Here are seven terrifying things parents forget that can lead to serious consequences.

Forgetting a Baby in the Car

Every summer, heartbreaking headlines remind us of the dangers of leaving a baby in a hot car. Many parents assume they could never make this mistake, yet it happens every year, often to loving and responsible caregivers.

Heatstroke can occur within minutes, as temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies overheat faster than adults. Some parents forget because of a break in routine—such as a different parent dropping the baby off at daycare—or simply because they are exhausted and distracted.

To prevent this, some experts recommend leaving a purse, phone, or even a shoe in the backseat as a reminder to check before locking the car. Apps and car seat alarms are also available to alert parents if they accidentally leave their child behind.

Forgetting to Secure Furniture and TVs

Many parents take precautions to baby-proof electrical outlets and sharp corners, but one of the most overlooked dangers in a home is unsecured furniture. Dressers, bookshelves, and TVs can become deadly if a child tries to climb on them and they tip over.

Each year, children are seriously injured or killed in furniture-related accidents. It only takes a moment for a child to pull out a drawer, use it as a step, and cause a heavy piece of furniture to fall. Anchoring furniture to the wall with anti-tip straps can prevent these tragedies. Parents often assume it won’t happen to their child—until it does.

Forgetting About Medication and Cleaning Supplies

Most parents keep medication and cleaning products out of reach, but accidents happen when items are left out just for a moment. A bottle of pain relievers on the counter, an open purse with prescription medication inside, or a cleaning spray left near a sink can quickly become accessible to a curious child.

Small children explore with their hands and mouths, and many everyday items can be extremely toxic. Child-resistant packaging helps, but it’s not foolproof. Keeping all medications and household cleaners locked away, even when in use, can prevent life-threatening poisoning incidents.

Forgetting to Check the Bathwater Temperature

A hot bath may seem harmless, but scalding water can cause severe burns in seconds. Young children’s skin is much more sensitive than an adult’s, and they can suffer third-degree burns at temperatures above 120°F (49°C).

Parents sometimes forget to test the water before placing their child in the tub or assume that adjusting the faucet mid-bath will cool things down quickly. A sudden burst of hot water or a slight mistake in temperature control can result in painful injuries. Installing anti-scald devices on faucets and always checking the water with a thermometer or wrist can prevent unnecessary burns.

Forgetting to Lock or Secure Pools and Water Sources

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for young children, and it happens faster and more silently than most parents realize. Many accidents occur not because parents are unaware of the dangers of water but because they forget to secure it properly.

A backyard pool, an inflatable kiddie pool, or even a bucket of water can pose a serious risk. Children can drown in as little as two inches of water, and it takes just a moment of distraction for an accident to occur. Pool fences with self-latching gates, door alarms, and strict water safety rules can help prevent devastating tragedies.

Forgetting to Check Car Seat Straps and Installations

Car seats are one of the most important safety tools for children, but they only work if used correctly. Many parents make small but dangerous mistakes, such as forgetting to buckle the chest clip at the right level, leaving straps too loose, or not realizing the car seat is improperly installed.

Even in minor car accidents, an improperly secured child can suffer severe injuries. Studies show that a large percentage of car seats are used incorrectly. Double-checking that straps are snug, the chest clip is positioned correctly, and the seat is properly anchored can mean the difference between life and death in a crash.

Forgetting About Small Objects That Can Be Choking Hazards

Young children will put almost anything in their mouths, and small objects can quickly become deadly choking hazards. Parents often baby-proof their homes when their child first starts crawling, but as kids grow, new risks appear.

Coins, small toy parts, batteries, pen caps, and even food that is too large or the wrong shape can cause a choking emergency. Parents sometimes forget to scan the floor or check for small, overlooked items that could be within reach. Learning CPR and keeping a close eye on small objects can help prevent a life-threatening situation.

Awareness Can Prevent Tragedy

No parent is perfect, and forgetting things happens to everyone. But when it comes to child safety, even small mistakes can lead to serious consequences. The best way to prevent these terrifying accidents is to stay aware, build habits that reinforce safety, and use reminders when necessary.

Parenting is exhausting, and distractions are everywhere. A little extra caution and a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping children safe.

Have you ever caught yourself forgetting something potentially dangerous? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Read more: 7 Terrifying Things Parents Forget That Can Have Devastating Consequences