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Home › Articles › Safe Family › Careful Considerations

Careful Considerations

Keeping Babies Safe and Sound

By Penny Powell

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A bassinet with a wide base and sturdy bottom is recommended for ultimate stability. According to the CPSC, to avoid the equipment from folding while in use, ensure that the legs have strong locks. "If the product has wheels, make sure it has a locking mechanism," says Holtzman. "Always follow manufacturers' guidelines on the appropriate weight and size of babies who can safely use the cradles or bassinet."

As for changing tables, "Look for high sides and one that is sturdy and stable," says Holtzman. The table should be equipped with safety straps to be used at all times the table is in use. "Safety straps are a must," she adds.

Sitting High
"Select a highchair with a wide, stable base," says Holtzman. "It should have a crotch post, a waist strap and a crotch strap that are independent of the tray. Test the straps before you buy, choosing ones that are sturdy as well as easy to fasten and unfasten."

According to the CPSC, if a child is not properly strapped in he can easily slide under the tray of the chair. Also, there should be no parts on the highchair that children can easily pull off and swallow. The CPSC also advises parents using folding highchairs to ensure they are securely locked when in use to avoid collapsing.

On the Go
Stacey Montgomery, a Chicago-area mom and publisher of CelebratingChildren.com, recalls stopping by a major children's products retailer one summer to have the installation of her son's car seat checked. There, she learned that the seat was installed correctly but that the seat belt needed tightening. She's grateful she took time out to have her son's seat checked because otherwise she may have never known the seat belt wasn't tight enough.


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