When can you take the side off the cot?

[spiralqueen]

My DD has her cot on the lowest level but being tall, supple and a bit of a Houdini is trying to hook her leg over the top in a bit for freedom. If she does manage it, it's a big drop to the bedroom floor.

I'm torn between having to keep an ear out for escape attempts and taking the side of the cot off so she won't do herself any damage if she gets out of bed.

She's 14 months old going on at least 14.

Any thoughts/suggestions?

I gave up trying to fence them in when I realised they could get out with the side up or down, and put bean-bag below to soften fall. Then its up to persuasion to make them stay in bed - or a stairgate at the top of the stairs and selective deafness.