Safe sleeping arrangements can save a baby's life
While it’s tempting to take your baby into bed with you, they’re much safer sleeping alone in a bassinet or crib nearby. Here are some helpful tips to keep your baby safe while sleeping:
- Babies should always sleep in a safe crib, bassinet or pack ’n play with a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheet. Adult beds, couches, chairs, waterbeds and other furniture aren't safe for babies.
- Remove all stuffed animals, bumpers or accessories.
- Lay your baby on his/her back to go to bed. Remove a bib before putting your baby to bed.
- If you want to be near your baby, put the crib or bassinet in your room.
- Always return your baby to the crib before going to sleep yourself.
- Check to see if your crib meets federal safety standards. If a can of soda fits between the slats, a child’s head could, too.
- f the crib has a side that drops down, it is unsafe and has been recalled by the federal government.
- Never place a crib near windows, draperies, blinds or wall-mounted decorative accessories with cords.
- Talk about safe sleeping with anyone who cares for your baby, such as grandparents, babysitters and others.
If you need help providing your baby a safe place to sleep, please contact Home Safe at 561-383-9871.
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Time to set a curfew?
It’s 9 p.m. on Saturday and your 15-year-old asks to meet friends at the movie theater.
As a parent, your brain swims with questions: Is there a local law that limits how late teens can stay out? Do you OK the late night or set a curfew? Should you plan to pick up your teen – when you’d rather be sleeping – or allow your teen to drive home with a friend or use a ride-sharing service?
While a few curfew laws do exist, experts say the most important step parents can take is to talk to their teen beforehand and establish rules you both can live with.
To avoid last-minute conflicts, experts suggest that you:
- Set rules and expectations in advance
- Decide what kind of transportation you’re OK with
- Research local curfew laws
For more advice on curfews and teen safety, sign up or log in to EveryParent below.
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To save lives, use the right car seat every time
Families are so busy these days, it can be tempting to let a relative hold your baby or toddler on their lap for a quick drive to the store. DON’T DO IT! If there’s a serious collision, your baby’s risk of dying drops 71 percent if he or she is in a properly installed safety seat. And don't forget older children. A Florida law enacted in 2015 requires children through age 5 to be in safety or booster seats, as well.
Experts suggest that you know your car seat’s history. If it’s been in a crash, it needs to be replaced. Also, keep young children in a rear-facing carseat for as long as possible – usually until about 2 years old. Above all, make sure the seat is properly installed. Many local fire stations and police departments offer free car seat installation checks. And if you need help affording a car seat or booster, call Safe Kids Palm Beach County at 561-242-5700.
For more car seat safety tips, sign up or log in to EveryParent below.
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