<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" citation="COMAR 13A.15.05.04" title_num="13A" subtitle_num="15" chapter_num="05" heading="Rooms Used for Care.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>The provider may use an area of the home for child care only if it:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Has been approved for use by the office;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Meets the requirements of all applicable fire codes;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Does not have a condition that may pose a risk to the health, safety, or welfare of the children in care;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Has windows or artificial lighting that provides sufficient illumination for a child's activities;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>Has natural or mechanical ventilation to provide a healthy and comfortable environment;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(6)">
      <text>Has sufficient floor area for the number and ages of the children approved for care in the home to allow the children to engage in active play without overcrowding; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(7)">
      <text>Has a room temperature of not less than 65°F.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>In rooms where a child younger than 5 years old is in care, the provider shall arrange the home so that:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>All electrical sockets within reach of a child are plugged or capped;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Suitable protective barriers are placed at locations accessible and potentially hazardous to children; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Child-proof devices are placed on cabinets and drawers that contain items potentially hazardous to children.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>Window Coverings. A window covering installed:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Before October 1, 2010, may not have unsecured cords, beads, ropes, or strings that are accessible to a child in care; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>On or after October 1, 2010, shall be cordless.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>In a home approved to provide care for infants or toddlers, the provider shall designate space for mothers to breastfeed or express breast milk that:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Is not located in a bathroom;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Has access to an electrical outlet;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Has appropriate seating;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Has access to running water; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>Accommodates a mother’s need for privacy.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>