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Baby's Safety Birth to Two Months

It is a good idea to write down all the new physical, language and social advances baby has made. Also, if your baby was born early or has a disability, be sure to follow the doctor’s orders and advice on how to take care of baby. Here are tips to help ensure baby’s safety from birth to two months.

Give baby plenty of tummy time when he or she is awake and someone is watching. Supervised tummy time helps strengthen baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles. It also helps to prevent flat spots on the back of baby’s head. 

Do not let baby get too hot during sleep. Dress baby appropriately for the environment, and do not over-bundle. It is advised not to place hats on infants when indoors except in the first hours of life.

Weighted blankets, weighted sleepers, weighted swaddles, or other weighted objects should not be placed on or near the sleeping baby.

Safe Sleep Space

  • Place baby to sleep on back (which reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) in a crib, bassinet, cradle, or pack ‘n play that meets current Consumer Product Safety Commission Standards.
  • Mattress should be firm with no space between the mattress and the sides of the crib, bassinet, pack ‘n play, or cradle.
  • Sides should be high enough so baby cannot fall out. The top of the crib rail in its highest position should be at least 26 inches from the top of the mattress support in its lowest position.
  • Crib bars or slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart (about the width of a can of soda), and none of the bars should be cracked or missing. 
  • Corner posts should be flush with the end panels.
  • Baby should never sleep with bumper pads, pillows, toys, or loose blankets.
  • Bassinet should be stable and not able to knock over.
  • Use a cradle that cannot swing high enough to overturn.

Baby's Bath

  • Be sure surface is non-slippery.
  • Be certain water is shallow and test water temperature on wrist.
  • Hold baby’s head up with arm around back of neck.
  • If you feel weak or ill, do not bathe baby in tub; give baby a sponge bath.
  • Never leave baby, even with siblings.

Dressing or Changing Baby – Table, Crib or Floor

  • Do not leave baby alone on an elevated surface.
  • Keep lotion or other uncovered materials away from baby. Do not use powder.
  • Keep caps, small objects, strings and jewelry out of baby’s reach.
  • Place arms and legs carefully into clothing. Bending arms and legs out of normal position can cause fracture or joint injuries.

Car Safety

  • Use a rear-facing car seat that is the correct size for your infant. See weight and height labels on seats. 
  • Follow directions for installing car seat securely and correctly in the back seat or have help from a certified child passenger safety technician.
  • Be certain baby is always properly buckled in car seat.
  • Be sure vehicle is safe and in good condition.
  • Keep objects in car secured so as not to injure baby during sudden stops.
  • Never leave baby unattended in a vehicle – not even for a minute!

Carriage/Stroller

  • Be sure carriage/stroller is strong and stable so it will not tip over.
  • Make sure baby is securely placed and strapped.
  • Recline stroller back at about 45 degree angle which keeps chin off of chest and airway clear.
  • Keep face clear of blankets for breathing.

Back or Front Carry Pack

  • Use correct size and material for age of baby.
  • Keep baby’s head supported.
  • Check that baby does not slide inside and have trouble breathing.
  • Make sure pack is tied securely to person carrying baby.

Safety Environment

  • Do not take drugs or alcohol.
  • Do not smoke. If someone has been smoking, have them change clothing before being around the baby. 
  • Maintain a working smoke alarm and carbon dioxide alarm. 
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