Crib Safety - Keeping Your Baby Safe In Bed
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Every expectant parent has heard the horror stories of infants whose lives have been tragically cut short by a baby crib. Notices on the walls of department stores remind them, frequently, of the possible dangers. The good news is that, with a little bit of common sense, you can avoid any danger that a crib might pose to your little one.
Government regulations in the US have helped with crib safety. In 1974, new crib standards went into place. Among other things, these standards demanded that the space between slats on a crib must be no greater than 2 3/8 inches apart. This gap is small enough that it will prevent a baby from getting his head stuck inbetween the slats. You should also check your crib to be certain that the corner posts are no more than 1/16 inch higher than the end panels of the crib. The top rails of the crib sides, when raised, need to go at least 26 in. over the top of the part of the crib that supports the mattress. The sides of the crib, if they are able to be dropped down, should need at least 2 separate actions, such as pulling up on the slats and stepping on a release pedal, to release. Always check your crib hardware for pieces that might be broken or loose.
In addition to the design of the crib, there are a few other things you can do for added safety. If a baby is under 12 months old, place him on his back when he sleeps. Be sure to use a firm, tigh-fitting mattress with little or no space between the mattress and the crib. Keep extra bedding items, such as stuffed toys, pillows, or quilts out of the crib. When the weather allows, use sleeper pajamas instead of blankets. Finally, you should be sure to use a fitted sheet that is made for your crib.
It is not recommended that you place your baby on an adult bed. Injury or suffocation can easily occur, such as through falling, entrapment between the wall and the bed, falls from the bed onto the floor, falls onto piles of clothing or other materials that could result in suffocation, and suffocation in soft adult bedding materials.
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