Nothing can compare to the excitement and fulfillment that comes with parenting. As infants, they’re very fragile and require maximum attention and care. And when they become toddlers, unfortunately their curiosity can at times land them at a risk of injury.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a child is treated for an injury in an emergency department every four seconds. Unfortunately, these injuries result in one fatality each hour. With baby safety month on the horizon, learn eight tips for keeping your baby safe.
7 Tips for Keeping Your Baby Safe During Baby Safety Month
Babies are vulnerable and need attentive care from parents and other caregivers. Whether you’re a new parent or not, it’s vital to take note of these seven safety tips.
Monitor Fevers Closely
A baby’s immune system is still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. Therefore a rise in temperature that may not be concerning to older children may be a sign of something serious in an infiant. Therefore, monitoring your baby closely when they have a fever is vital. Call the doctor immediately if their temperature is above 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit. For babies three months and younger, a rectal temperature of just 100.04 degrees Fahrenheit is cause for concern.
Beware of Hot Drinks
Coffee, tea, and other hot drinks are a staple for many adults, but they can pose a serious threat to young children. Scalds from hot beverages account for many burn injuries among children under four years old.
Never Leave Your Baby Alone in the Bathtub
Baths are a great way to relax and bond with your baby. But they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. To prevent drowning accidents from happening, always stay within arm’s reach of your baby when they’re in the tub. Never leave them unattended, even for a second. If you need to leave the bathroom, take your baby out of the water.
Use Car Seats and Booster Seats Properly
Car accidents can cause serious injuries to children and babies. While you can’t always prevent them, you can take steps to protect your child. One of the best ways to do this is to use a car seat or booster seat properly. When using a car seat, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Never put a child in a seat that’s too big or too small for them.
Practice Safe Sleep Habits
The leading cause of death for children aged one month to a year is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It is characterized as the sudden and unexplained death of a baby. To reduce the risk of SIDS, learn and practice safe sleep habits. This means placing your baby on their back to sleep, using a firm mattress, and removing all pillows, blankets, and toys from the crib.
Keep Your Baby’s Crib Away From Windows
While fresh air is good for your baby, drafts can be dangerous. That’s why keeping your baby’s crib away from windows is important. If the weather is warm, open the window no more than four inches. And if it’s cold outside, ensure there’s no gap between the bottom of the window and the crib.
Install Child Safety Locks
As your baby starts to explore its environment, it’s important to child-proof your home. Install safety locks on all cabinets and drawers. You should also keep harmful chemicals out of reach, like cleaning products and medicines. The best way to do this is to store them in a locked cabinet.
If you are feeling unsure or frightened by the possible dangers your baby is exposed to, you may find informative guides by The American Academy of Pediatrics.
Contact Feller and Wendt, LLC Personal Injury Attorneys for Legal Support
Caring for and protecting your child is a full-time job that will test your physical, mental, and emotional resolve. Taking these steps can keep your child safe and make it easier for you. Sadly, however, despite all your efforts, your child will still face many risks, more so from other people’s actions.
If your child has sustained injury due to another party’s negligence or carelessness the experienced legal team at Feller & Wendt are here for you. We’ll provide legal counsel and support to help your child get the treatment and compensation your family deserves. Call us today at (801) 499-5060 or fill out contact form for a free consultation.
