Setting up a safe environment for your newborn is essential to ensure their well-being and development. Here is a quick guide on key safety considerations around your home with baby in tow:
For sleep: Create a safe environment by placing your baby on their back to sleep in a firm crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting mattress.
Avoid using pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals to reduce the risk of suffocation.
Keep the crib away from cords, blinds, or curtains, and ensure no loose or dangling objects are nearby.
Avoid using crib bumpers, sleep positioners, or wedges, as they can pose suffocation hazards. Ensure crib slats are no more than 2.38 inches (60mm) apart to prevent entrapment.
Baby-Proofing: Securing furniture, covering sharp edges, and installing safety gates to block stairs and off-limit areas. Use electrical outlet covers, cabinet locks, and window guards to prevent accidents and injuries.
Not too hot, not too cold: Keep your baby's room at a comfortable temperature, between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius).
Dress your baby in light, breathable layers to avoid overheating.
Use sleep sacks or swaddles instead of blankets to keep them warm at night.
Safe Bathing: Always stay with your baby during bath time and never leave them unattended in the water, even for a moment.
Use a baby bathtub or a small basin filled with warm water.
Check the water temperature with your elbow or a bath thermometer to ensure it's not too hot.
Car Seat Safety: Use an approved rear-facing car seat appropriate for your baby's age, weight, and height. Install the car seat correctly, following the manufacturer's guidelines, and make sure it is tightly secured.
Taking these safety precautions and staying vigilant can provide your newborn with a secure and nurturing environment. As they grow and become more mobile, continue to assess and update the safety measures to accommodate their changing needs.