12 Baby Safety Tips You Might Not Know as a First Time Parent

Before having a baby, there are some safety basics that you need to know but might have never heard before. As a first-time parent, it can be daunting to have a newborn human to look after. But don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. 

Today, we will explore the tips and advice you need to keep your baby as safe as possible. 

CPR and first aid

It is highly useful to attend classes before your baby arrives. CPR and first aid are essential courses to pursue so that you know what to do in case of a minor emergency. This was something I wish I had done before my son was born but did it around the time he started solids for my own peace of mind.

By searching for cpr near me, you will be able to gain access to a local class to help you gain the knowledge you need to keep your baby safety from birth. While you hope nothing will happen, having the knowledge in case you need it is good. 

Both you and your partner (and any other regular caregiver) should go to the class so that you are both aware of what to do. Although you might be together most of the time, anything can happen any time. It is best to know how to reduce the risk of health emergencies. 

Washing hands and sanitization 

Something to add to your first-time baby safety guide is regular hand washing and sanitation. While the germs you pick up during the day might not affect your health, it can significantly impact your baby. Babies are highly vulnerable to new germs. If their bodies do not recognize them, you might risk them becoming ill. 

Hence, be sure to wash your hands regularly and use sanitization products. You must do so with clean and sanitized hands every time you feed them, change their nappy, or handle them. 

It is good to carry sanitizer around with you to guarantee maximum hygiene at all times. 

Supporting baby’s head and neck

Newborn babies cannot support their heads or hold their necks in position. They might be able to do so safely after a few months, but every baby is different. 

Hence, you must support your baby’s head and neck at all times. They will require support whenever you pass them to someone, feed them, put them down, or pick them up. 

When you notice they are more capable of supporting their own head and neck, you are still advised to support them. They will benefit from the extra assistance until they can safely do so alone. 

Avoid shaking your baby during play

Although you might wish to squeeze and shake your baby due to cuteness overload, it is important to avoid this. Babies are delicate and should never be shaken. 

Never shake them during play or in frustration. You might not realize how much damage you can do by doing this. Be as gentle as possible to reduce the risk of accidents. 

Car seat and baby carrier fastening 

You might use car seats and baby carriers most days. However, it is important to use them safely to guarantee maximum safety and comfort. 

Car seats and baby carriers must be fastened correctly and securely before you embark on your journey. Modern car seats have green light indicators to show you whether the belt is secure. If not, double-check it before you head off. 

Further, if you choose to wear a baby carrier, ensure proper fastening. Making sure the carrier is secure will help you take maximum care while carrying your baby.

Don’t offer water until they are six months

Newborns and small babies should not drink water. Giving any baby under six months old water can cause water intoxication and bacteria. 

Avoid giving them anything but breastmilk or formula until they are six months old to protect their health and avoid the risk of intoxication. All babies are different, and some might have been able to tolerate it earlier. But to be safe, avoid it until your healthcare provider suggests it is safe. 

If you need help, ask for it

The issue with becoming a first-time parent is that you might lack certain knowledge. Don’t worry about doing things wrong, as you are likely doing everything right. 

Don’t hesitate to ask for it if you are worried or need help. There is nothing wrong with asking for advice. It will ensure that you are pursuing safe techniques. 

Further, if you are overtired and need help caring for your baby for a few days or weeks, ask for help. It is normal to need help when you are a first-time parent. It can be overwhelming, so be easy on yourself. 

Create a safe sleeping environment

Creating a safe sleeping environment is one of the most important aspects of baby safety. The American Academy of Paediatrics advises sleeping on your baby’s back, which has been shown to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). 

Another important aspect of baby safety is having a firm sleep surface. Your baby’s cot should have a firm mattress with a fitted sheet and be free of pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals, all of which could pose a risk of suffocation.

If you are unsure of your baby’s sleeping environment, ask the healthcare professionals as they will offer tips and in some cases, offer to check and adjust the area.

A safe awake-window environment 

It is equally crucial to create a safe space for your infant while it is awake. Supervision is essential when your infant starts to move and explore more. Make sure you’re always close by and watching over your baby when it’s awake and active. 

If you pursue tummy time activities, be sure to stay with them. If you aren’t too careful, they may roll over or have an accident. 

Those who choose to change their baby anywhere other than the floor (i.e., a high place such as a bed) should always keep a close watch. They can roll over and fall, even with a bumper by their sides. 

Proper bottle sterilization

Safety is a major consideration when it comes to feeding your child, whether you choose to bottle feed or breastfeed. To prevent burns, make sure bottles are thoroughly sterilized before using them, and check the temperature of warmed milk before feeding. 

When introducing solid foods, steer clear of hard, tiny items like whole nuts or grapes that could become choking hazards. You want to ensure that you only give your baby what they are capable of swallowing. If you need assistance, ask your healthcare provider. 

Bath time safety 

While taking a bath together can be a great way to strengthen bonds, it’s also crucial to consider safety. Before putting your infant in the bath, always check the water’s temperature, and never leave your child alone. 

It’s important to always keep your baby within arm’s reach during bath time because they can drown in as little as a few inches of water. For added support, consider using a non-slip bath mat or an infant bath seat that has been properly made.

Baby-proofing your home for when they can move around more

Babyproofing your home will become more and more important as your child develops. This entails putting baby gates at the top and bottom of staircases, covering sharp furniture edges with corner guards, and making sure that dangerous items like cleaning supplies and prescription drugs are kept out of reach in locked cabinets. 

In addition, furniture that could topple over, such as dressers or bookcases, should be fastened to the wall. Electrical outlets should also be covered.

Bringing a baby into your home is a big step and keeping them safe is just part of parenting.

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