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