Baby Slings and Baby Carriers
The use of infant straps and baby carriers (worn by healthcare workers) has led to serious injuries and, in some cases, the death of children in Canada. It can take risks and promote safety. Premature babies, babies under 4 months of age, or people with a pre-existing medical condition, such as a cold, are at particular risk of contracting the disease. Consult a physician before using a sling with a premature baby.
- Ensure that the baby's face is always visible, free of obstructions and above the fabric of the sling at all times.
- Choose a baby sling or baby carrier that:
- is appropriate for the age and size of the baby.
- is the appropriate size for the adult carrying the baby.
- comes with detailed and easy to understand instructions.
- will not allow the baby to slip through the leg openings or fall over the side of the product.
- comes with safety straps or fasteners. Make sure that they are always securely fastened.
- Check for ripped seams and other signs of wear that may make the product unsafe before each use.
- Take caution when bending over. Hold onto the baby with one hand and bend at the knees to prevent the baby from falling out of the sling or carrier.
- Never zip up a coat around a baby in a sling or in a soft infant carrier to keep the baby warm. This can result in the baby suffocating.
- Check on your baby often.
- Ensure that the baby is in a slightly slanted or upright position, otherwise they can curl into a position with the chin resting on or near their chest which can interfere with breathing even if nothing is covering the nose or mouth.
Bath Safety
Make sure the temperature of the hot water from the tap is no more than 49ºC (120ºF). If possible, set your hot water heater thermostat at 49ºC (120ºF) or lower.
- Turn on the cold water first and then the hot water when filling the tub. When finished filling the tub, turn off the hot water first and then the cold water.
- Test the water before placing your child in the tub.
Car Seats and Booster Seats
All car seats must be marked with a national safety label indicating that they meet current and current Canadian standards for motor vehicle safety. Don't buy a seat that doesn't have a national security label.
Change Tables
Remember that in the moment it takes you to reach for something, the baby can roll over and fall. To limit the risk of falls, you may choose to use a changing pad on the floor instead of a change table. If you choose to use a change table consider the following tips:
- Choose a change table with safety straps.
- Take the baby with you if you have to leave the room for any reason.
- Never place the baby in the main body of the playpen or crib while the change table insert is still in place.
- Check for the stability of the change table when it is attached to the main frame of the playpen. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Children's Clothing
Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics catch fire and burn more quickly than most synthetic materials. Nylon and polyester are more difficult to catch fire and burn more slowly.
Loose-fitting cotton and cotton blend sleepwear for children do not meet flammability requirements. If you prefer cotton and cotton blends make sure the sleepwear is a tight-fitting style, such as polo pajamas or sleepers. Tight-fitting clothing is less likely to catch fire than clothing with flowing skirts, wide sleeves, or large ruffles.
- Other safety considerations for children's clothing:
- Dress children in actual sleepwear when putting them to bed rather than in T-shirts or other day clothes. Day clothes may not meet the more stringent flammability requirements for sleepwear.
- Remove drawstrings or cords on children's clothing. Children can strangle on drawstrings and cords that get caught around their neck or on other objects.
- Check that belts, ties, or sashes on children's robes are stitched firmly to the center back of these products. Young children are at risk of strangulation from any type of cord that can be detached from the clothing.
- Check for loose buttons or other small parts as they could become a choking hazard.
- Check blankets and sleepers regularly for loose threads and fix them immediately, as threads can wrap around a baby's finger or neck and cause injury.
Pacifiers
There are many ways to soothe a baby and many babies never use a pacifier. If you decide to use a pacifier, please follow the list
- Inspect pacifiers daily. Check the nipple for changes in texture, tears, or holes. These can appear with age or exposure to heat, certain foods, or sunlight.
- Check that the nipple and any ring or handle remains firmly attached when it is pulled upon forcefully
- Never tie or hang a pacifier or any other object around the neck of a baby or a young child. This can result in strangulation
- Replace pacifiers at least every two months rather than waiting for signs of breakdown
- Throw out any pacifier displaying signs of breakdown right away because the broken or loose pieces are choking hazards.
- Choose a teething ring as a safer alternative to chewing on a pacifier for children who are teething.