September is baby safety month, hosted by juvenile products
manufacturers association (JPMA). In this week's blog we are going to talk
about the basics of safety tips, hidden hazards around the home and tips for
buying products to use for your infants.
Learning that you are about to have a baby is one of the
most exciting and heartfelt experiences you will ever have in your life! After
learning the news it is time to get your house in order to properly protect
your newborn, and soon to be toddler. JMPA notes that it is best to babyproof
your home before you register for your baby shower. This helps to give you a
better idea of what you need to further protect your child. A good suggestion
when babyproofing your home is to get down on your hands a knees to see the
world through a baby's eyes. Make sure outlets are properly covered, cabinet
drawers have baby locks and furniture is properly secured to the walls.
Remember that babies are very curious and will eventually like to explore every
room in your home so it is important to make sure every room is suitable for
them.
There are many hazards around the home that we, as adults,
can easily forget about. If you have blinds covering your windows it is
important to make sure the blind string is out of reach for babies as they can
become a strangulation hazard. Make sure that magnets that are easily
accessible are kept out of reach because they can be easily swallowed by
children. Other choking hazards include loose change, small rocks, legos or any
small object that can fit into a child's mouth. Children are very curious
creatures so it is a good idea to vacuum your home and try to vacuum regularly
to reduce the risk of choking. Table clothes should not hang within reach of an
infant as they can easily be pulled down. Be aware of loose rugs as they can
become tripping hazards once your toddler starts walking. Keep your toddler
away from hot substances like boiling water or coffee to avoid burns.
There are a lot of different products on the market when
choosing baby supplies. When picking out a stroller make sure you have a
stroller with a wide base to help reduce the risk of a tip over. The larger
base is also useful to help store baby bags or other supplies under the
stroller while on your adventures. When choosing a baby carrier or sling try to
find good, durable material that is washable. Babies often times spit up or
drool so it's important to be able to wash the carrier. When choosing a crib
mattress make sure the mattress fits the crib so that no more than two fingers
width can fit between the mattress and crib. When using a changing table make
sure your baby is properly secured or that you have one hand on them at all
time. Lastly, always watch for recalls! You can check for recalls at
www.recalls.gov to make sure your products are safe.
For additional tips
and tricks when expecting a baby click the link below! For more ways to keep
your family healthy visit our website at oxborochiro.com!
By: Dr. Travis Klug, D.C.
Source: https://babysafetyzone.org/safety-tips#Mealtime
