ACCIDENT PREVENTION FOR BABIES
Choking
All babies put things in their mouths. Keep small objects out of reach. This includes beads, small parts of toys, and foods such as peanuts and pieces of carrot or popcorn. Teach your child to sit while eating, and always supervise him.
Poisoning
Store all medicines, and household chemicals such as bleach, caustic soda, cleaners, dishwashing liquids and detergents etc. out of reach, preferably in a locked or child resistant cupboard. Make sure that medicines and tablets are in child resistant containers, and remember to replace the lids. Get rid of all old tablets and medicines. Make sure you have written down the number of your Poisons Information Centre.
Even though it is desirable for babies and toddlers to be able to freely explore their environment, we recognise there are occasions when their activity and mobility need to be restricted for short periods of time. If you decide to purchase a playpen, it is worthwhile checking with your local Child Safety Centre or Child Accident Prevention Foundation branch for information about which brands are considered safest for your child.
Babywalkers
We recommend that you do not purchase a ‘babywalker’ for your child. They do not help babies to learn to walk. Walking ability depends on their development, experience, personality and opportunity. Walking is more likely to be delayed if a baby spends time in a walker because they are missing out on normal experience.
Babywalkers may contribute to serious injuries in a baby — babies in walkers can reach things such as shelves and tables. In addition, falls down steps and stairs are relatively common. It is best not to use them.
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