There’s nothing like bringing a new baby home from the hospital but keeping that baby safe can quickly seem overwhelming for a new mom. You’re going to do great! During Baby Safety Month in September it’s a good time to remind yourself of some simple safety tips.
Invest in a good car seat
When you’re preparing to bring a new baby home, never purchased a used car seat. Car seats may be defective if they’ve been involved in an accident and they also expire. It’s a good idea to check reviews and purchase a seat you feel will keep your baby happy and comfortable for years to come. Infants and children should remain in a rear-facing seat for as long as possible. If you’re nervous about installing the seat yourself, check out this Ultimate Car Seat Guide from Safe Kids Worldwide.
Sleep safe
The only thing a baby needs to sleep safely at night is a firm mattress and a fitted crib sheet. Keep toys, blankets and pillows out of the crib and out of reach for now. Children should be placed on their back in the crib to sleep. It’s also a good time to check the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Knowing these tools are working properly will help everyone in the home sleep a little more comfortably.
Take a CPR and first aid course
As your baby ages they’ll explore the world—often with their mouth. It’s important to know basic CPR and first aid skills that could save a life. Make sure the course covers infant CPR, choking and burns. Don’t forget, Child Crisis Arizona offers a variety of free parenting classes over Zoom and on-demand.