Child Proofing for Babies
Child proofing your home is important to give your child a safe place to learn and grow. Safety measures will change as the age of your child changes. Babies need protection. Even with your home child proofed, it is still important to watch young children at all times.
How can I make my home safer for my baby?
Your baby needs your protection. An infant trusts you to make his or her home a safe place.
- Keep cribs away from window blind cords, rosaries, or strings that could cause choking.
- Do not use pillows or crib bumper pads. Babies can get trapped underneath these bulky items and not be able to breathe.
- All toys should be checked for safety.
- Toys should be age appropriate. For infants:
- Toys should be soft and bendable. There should be no sharp corners or edges.
- They should not have small parts that could be swallowed.
- Never leave small objects within your baby’s reach.
- Babies will naturally put things in their mouth.
- They can easily choke on small objects.
- Keep all plastic bags away from your baby.
- Never leave your baby alone with other children.
- Do not turn your back on your baby or leave him or her alone on changing table or bed.
- Never carry your baby while you are carrying hot foods or liquids.
- Make sure your baby cannot get anything pulled tight around his or her neck. Check all hats and clothing.
- Do not hang a pacifier around your baby’s neck with string or ribbon.
- Never leave your baby alone in ANY amount of water. Empty the sink or bathtub as soon as bath time is finished. Remember babies can drown in as little as one inch of water.
- Be careful when taking your baby in the sun. Use hats and stroller shades to avoid the baby getting sunburned. Sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months old.
- Do not use baby walkers with wheels.
- They are not safe and they do not help babies learn to walk.
- Place all infant seats and carriers on an even surface only so they do not tip over.
- Teach older children not to touch the seat
- Never leave your baby alone in any seat or carrier
- Make sure smoke detectors and fire extinguishers work. Check the smoke alarms once a month and change batteries when the clocks change for daylight savings time.
- Use child proof covers on electric outlets. Use childproof latches on cabinets and drawers.
- Prevent hot water scalds by setting water heater to below 120 degrees. If your baby comes in to contact with burning water, run cold water over the burn and call the doctor.
- Do not buy dishwasher or laundry pods.
- Keep poison control and other emergency numbers posted and listed in your phone.
- Take Infant CPR and first aid classes.
What is my responsibility as a parent?
It is your job to give your child the safest home possible. This job begins with protecting your baby. Watching your baby is the best way to keep him or her safe.
Where can I look for more information?
