Baby Proofing Basics. Vicki Lansky

      introduction

      In the beginning there is a wonderful little, seemingly helpless baby who is basically immobile and reacts only to the stimuli of his or her environment. From your baby’s beginning days, you will quickly be thrust into the role of your child’s protector. The world now becomes a source of learning as well as danger. And now — forever — you will either act or feel like protecting your child. And beginning from the time your child can turn over, your role will be very specific.

      Birth to four months: While seemingly limited in mobility, babies can squirm, wiggle and even turn over, getting themselves into dangerous situations. Don’t leave even the youngest baby unattended on a high surface, and check all corners he or she may be able to scoot into.

      Four months to seven months: Babies begin to roll over, creep backward or even forward, sit up and put every possible object into their mouths. They’re very interested in everything. Carefully monitor their environment!

      Seven months to one year: Crawling, standing, walking and climbing developments make toddlers a moving menace to themselves. There is the danger of falls and of pulling heavy objects down on themselves. Anything may be ingested, so accidental poisoning becomes a real threat. Childproof thoroughly, then always be on the alert!

      Up to five years: Running (and falling), curiosity with water, the ability to dismantle most anything, and the lack of fear makes children a real danger to themselves. Active children, without the understanding of the consequences of their actions, need to be monitored and watched, despite their apparent understanding of your words and warnings.

      What we know to be true is that most accidents are preventable. We know, unfortunately through the tragedies of other families, where and what causes so many of these accidents. We must learn from the experience of others so we CAN protect our children. That’s what we’ve tried to share with you on the following pages. What you buy, where you put it, and how you use it are important lessons to learn. This knowledge, coupled with responsible surveillance of your children, will provide the best protection for the health and well-being of your family.

      Eliminating common household hazards is one of the most important steps a parent can take to provide a healthier and safer environment for children.

      Fortunately, we are not left to personal vigilance alone. The federal government has come to our aid through the efforts of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) starting in the 1970’s. It is an independent regulatory commission whose mandate is to protect the consumer from “unreasonable risk of injury” from products. If you have questions about product recall information, want to report a product injury, or report an unsafe toy or one that has caused an accident, call 800-638-CPSC (2772), or write to CPSC, 4330 East West Hwy, Bethesda, MD 20814. Their website — www.cpsc.gov — is a wealth of information. You can e-mail them at: [email protected]. CPSC also has an app for your phone to keep you up-to-date on product recalls.

      The CPSC toll-free number offers some recorded messages on product safety when you call there. They are often seasonal in nature. The site also allows you to request their publication list of available reports on a large variety of topics. You can also speak to a hot line representative who can answers questions for you or send you information ranging from playground safety to Fireworks Facts. Spanish is also available. CPSC is anxious to answer any of your questions and help you to report the problems you have experienced with any variety