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5 Tips For New Parents During Baby Safety Month

Published: Thursday, September 22, 2022
Elaina Lee
Safe Kids Coordinator
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If you are a new mom or dad, chances are you have plenty of questions.

Baby Safety Month is all about getting you the information you need to put your mind at ease when it comes to the safety of your new baby. At Northeast Georgia Medical Center, our Safe Kids of Northeast Georgia program is committed to helping you through this new stage of life.

Here are 5 simple tips to get you started!

1. Check to make sure your car seat is installed correctly. Did you know? You can register for a Car Seat Safety class near you? Click here to register!

You can install a car seat with a seat belt or with lower anchors in your car. Once installed, be sure your child fits in the car seat correctly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has all the information you need when doing this at home.

2. Remember the ABCs of safe sleep!

  • Alone: The crib is the safest place for your baby to sleep. Same room, separate bed. Even for naps!
  • Back: Studies show that it is safest for babies to sleep on their back and this position reduces the risk of SIDS! This sleeping position is encouraged until your baby starts rolling over. Side and stomach positions can restrict breathing.
  • Crib: Keep it bare without pillows, blankets or toys. A flat and firm mattress is the way to go. There should be no gaps larger than two fingers between the sides of the crib.

3. Place your baby’s crib and other furniture away from windows to avoid falls or strangulation. Your baby is safer without any strings or cords within reach.

4. Check your water heater to make sure it’s set at120° F to avoid scalds. This will make sure the water never gets to a point that could injure your baby.

5. Install a working smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home (including all sleeping areas). This is important for not just baby safety, but family safety as well. Set aside some time to regularly test the alarms to make sure they work.

Learn More

Are you interested in learning more about Baby Safety? Reach out to us at Safe Kids for more information.