When you have a baby, safety should always be your top priority. Babies are incredibly active, so keeping them safe while they explore their world can be challenging. Here, we\u2019ll discuss some easy ways to help keep your baby safe and sound as they start taking on the world around them.<\/p>\n
We\u2019ll cover everything from baby-proofing your home<\/a> to properly fitting your baby\u2019s car seat and choosing the right stroller<\/a>. You\u2019ll also find some tips for keeping your baby safe while out and about, such as how to dress them for the weather and what to do in the event of an emergency. Finally, we\u2019ll discuss baby-proofing<\/a> your phone and computer. With our helpful tips, you\u2019ll be well-equipped with the knowledge you need to keep your baby safe as they continue to grow and learn.<\/p>\n As soon as babies start to crawl, toddle or scoot around, it\u2019s time to start looking for any potential risks in the home<\/a>. Make sure any staircases, decks, or balconies are securely blocked off with a baby gate for stairs<\/a> to prevent your little ones from taking an accident-prone tumble.<\/p>\n Check each room in the home for any hazards that may pose a risk to your baby.<\/p>\n In the kitchen<\/a>, make sure all appliances are securely shut and all sharp objects are out of reach. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, make sure any medicine, cleaning supplies, and toiletries are locked away<\/a> in cabinets that cannot be easily accessed by a curious crawler.<\/p>\n For the living room, remove any small objects that could be choking hazards. Lastly, when it comes to the bedroom, make sure any bedding is free of dangerous strings or long ribbons that could become wrapped around a baby\u2019s neck and restrict breathing.<\/p>\n Once you have looked through each room in the house and identified any potential hazards, you can start installing guards and covers on furniture corners, outlets<\/a>, and doorways to keep kids safe within your home. You can also purchase guards designed specifically for staircases and balconies to ensure that they are securely blocked off from curious crawlers at all times.<\/p>\n Before allowing your child to play with toys and accessories, it\u2019s important to check them for age-appropriate safety standards provided by the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM). Older toys may not meet these newer safety standards and could present a risk of injury or choking hazards for younger children, so it\u2019s essential to check labels before allowing playtime fun.<\/p>\n If possible, create an age-appropriate play area in your home where kids can enjoy toys without additional supervision from mom or dad. This will help keep toys organized while also providing easy access to safe items that have been approved by the ASTM guidelines.<\/p>\n It is important to secure heavy furniture pieces like dressers, entertainment centers, or bookshelves to prevent them from tipping over on curious crawlers who might try using them as ladders. Make sure all items are securely fastened down using brackets or anchors from furniture straps. This not only helps prevent injuries but also protects furniture from damage caused by energetic kids.<\/p>\n Make sure all appliances like stoves, microwaves, refrigerators, or washing machines are securely fastened with locks, as well as installed with covers where applicable. This will help prevent accidental burns or electrocution if kids decide to test their newfound freedom by reaching into these areas.<\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re picking out a car seat, stroller, high chair,<\/a> or crib, it\u2019s essential that you select items that have been certified as meeting safety guidelines set forth by the ASTM.\u00a0 Items should be labeled with the latest safety information available as well as fit properly within the size and weight restrictions recommended by manufacturers for each item type.<\/p>\n Make your car seat is properly installed using the manufacturer’s directions and approved locking clips supplied with each seat type purchased from accredited retailers. Check the labels on car seats regularly for expiration dates, which will vary depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.<\/p>\n Look for strollers that provide good support for the baby’s back so their posture does not suffer during rides outside of the home. Again, check labels regularly for expiration dates and other pertinent information provided by manufacturers, such as weight limits.<\/p>\n When choosing high chairs<\/a>, look for models equipped with adjustable straps designed to provide extra secure seating in which babies can eat meals safely. Additionally, select chairs that feature adjustable footrests so feet remain secure while eating or playing with toys around mealtime.<\/p>\n When looking for a crib, aim for one equipped with adjustable mattress<\/a> heights. This way, you can adjust the height once your baby starts standing up inside their crib. Also, select models featuring secure spacing between slats to prevent your baby\u2019s head from becoming stuck between the openings.<\/p>\nPreparing a Safe Home for Baby<\/h3>\n
Crawling and Moving<\/h4>\n
Looking for Safety Hazards<\/h4>\n
Installing Guards<\/h4>\n
Baby Proofing Toys and Accessories<\/h3>\n
Checking Toys for Safety<\/h4>\n
Creating an Age-appropriate Play Area<\/h4>\n
Securing Furniture and Appliances<\/h3>\n
Securing Heavy Furniture<\/h4>\n
Securing Appliances<\/h4>\n
Selecting Baby Gear<\/h3>\n
Car Seats<\/h4>\n
Strollers<\/h4>\n
High Chairs<\/h4>\n
Cribs<\/h4>\n