LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — September is Baby Safety month, and FOX5 is partnering with Sunrise Children’s Hospital to help educate our viewers with some easy tips.
All children deserve extra special care, especially in the early years. Below are some easy safety reminders for newborns and toddlers.
SAFE SLEEP FOR BABY
All you need for a baby’s crib is a firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet. Keeping the crib clear of excess blankets and loose items helps reduce risks while sleeping. And although keeping your baby cozy is sweet, making sure babies aren’t over bundled with layers is key. Sweating or flushed skin is a warning sign that your baby is feeling too hot. And remember, sleeping on their backs is necessary, even for naps.
CAR SAFETY
Select a car seat based on your child’s age and size and always check the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for height and weight limits. Babies under one year of age should always be in a rear-facing car seat and shouldn’t move to front-facing or a booster until they reach the weight limit of the rear-facing seat.
Also conduct the “inch test”. Once the car seat is installed, put your hands where the belt is, at the base of the seat and give it a tug. The car seat shouldn’t move than one inch side to side or front to back. That will let you know it has been properly installed. Remember that children should only sit in the back seat until they are at least 12 years old.
CHOKING HAZARD PREVENTION
Babies are always testing the new world around them and one way is by putting food and objects in their mouths. Certain foods that are hard and smooth such as seeds, cubes of cheese and candies should be avoided for children under four years of age. Get in the habit of cutting circular foods like grapes, baby tomatoes and blueberries in half. Teach kids early on to sit while they eat, chew thoroughly and swallow their food before talking or laughing and to ask for help if something is difficult for them to eat.
HOME SAFETY
TVs that are not mounted to the wall should be secured. Use brackets and wall straps to secure top heavy furniture from falling or tipping over. When it comes to stairs, use only approved safety gates for the top and bottom, and secure them to a wall if possible. Set your water heater to 120 degrees to help avoid scalds during bathtime. And always keep vitamins and medicines out of your child’s reach.
Keep these tips in mind for Baby Safety month, and all year long to keep your family happy and healthy.
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