• Small objects, baby powder and cleansers should be kept away from the baby so that he/she may not swallow these materials.
  • Small toys should be checked closely for the possibility of breakage and small loose parts that can be pulled off and swallowed.
  • The purchase of an infant walker is generally discouraged because of the risk of injury. If one is purchased anyway, constant supervision is recommended especially around stairs. The use of an infant walker will not help your child walk alone at an earlier age.
  • It is important to check your home for possible physical hazards such as balconies, stairs, fireplace hearths and sharp table edges. The child should be protected from these hazards by gates and padding as appropriate. Expandable gates should be checked for appropriate spacing due to the risk of strangulation.
  • A “crawling tour” of your home is recommended, looking for possible hazards that your infant can get into. Electrical outlets should have plugs placed; cabinet doors should have locks. Poisons, cleaning products, furniture polish and other toxic materials should be placed well out of the reach of an infant. Other possible hazards should be identified and secured.
  • Infants should be protected from the possibility of drowning in a swimming pool.
  • In addition, an infant should never be left alone in the bathtub.
  • A playpen is suggested to be used as an “island of safety”; but, like the crib, safety precautions should be taken to avoid choking, strangling and suffocating hazards.