Safety at Home
For a newborn, your primary safety issue will involve sleeping arrangements.( See page 29.) As your baby grows and becomes mobile, your safety checklist will also grow. Use these tips to keep your baby as safe as possible:
• To avoid injury from accidents or falls, never leave baby unattended with other children or pets, or on any unsteady or elevated surface.
• Use baby monitors when baby is napping and you’ re in another room.
• Lock up all medications, cleansers, and other harmful substances.
• Keep small objects away from baby.
• Make sure there is no lead in your home( often found in old paint).
• Anchor and secure furniture to walls.
• Cover electrical outlets and secure cords.
• Keep strings from curtains and blinds secured, or replace with cordless blinds.
Vehicle Safety
Safety
A car seat is an essential tool to keep your baby safe while driving. Use these tips and visit plumtree. pro / carseat for safety information:
• Never allow your baby to be in a moving vehicle without being securely strapped in.
• Use a car seat made for your baby’ s current weight and size. Adjust or change the seat appropriately as your baby grows.
• Carefully read and follow all the instructions for installation and use of your car seat.
• A rear-facing car seat is safest and required by law. Keep baby rear-facing until both age and weight have met recommended limits for turning a child to front-facing.
• Straps should be snug and level with baby’ s shoulders. Never put straps over coats, blankets or other bulky items.
• Do not use a car seat that has been in an accident. If you are in an accident, replace the car seat right away.
• Always use a car seat that was manufactured since the most recent regulations to ensure that it meets all current safety standards.
Preview
Safety precautions are important, but there is no substitute for close, attentive supervision. Babies roll over, crawl and pull themselves up. No amount of babyproofing is enough to replace watchful eyes. Only leave your baby in the care of people who you trust completely.
Hospitals often have a staff person trained and certified in car seat safety who can check yours. Additional resources are available at safekids. org.
Caring for Your Newborn 41