Make Your Home Safe for Babies

There is nothing more precious than a newborn. As babies develop, so do their senses of wonder and curiosity. Here are a few ways you can protect your infant:

Make sure the space between crib bars is no more than 2 3/8 inches.

Cribs should not have knobs or posts that stick up more than a half-inch. If clothing catches on these the baby could choke or suffocate.

Make sure you can place two fingers between the mattress and the crib frame on all sides.

Crib rails should require two movements to be moved down. This ensures an infant cannot put it down accidentally while playing.

Do not hang toys in the crib.

Place the crib away from electrical outlets, even if they are covered.

Check for loose nuts and bolts on the crib.

Make sure the mesh on the playpen is small enough that a button cannot get caught in the holes. Holes should be less than one-quarter inch.

Do not leave small objects lying about.

Walkers are considered a risk, but if you allow your baby to use one, stay with the child at all times.

Be aware that anything painted more than 20 years ago might have lead in it. Lead in paint causes serious nerve and brain damage to infants and small children.