September is Baby Safety Month and this third article in a series on baby safety recognizes the organization that is responsible for this month being dedicated to baby safety issues and education. 

The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, Inc., which was formed in 1962, works with consumers, manufacturers and the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to develop and enforce safety standards for babies’ and children’s products.

Parents can purchase products that carry the JPMA seal with confidence because with the seal comes the guarantee that the products were designed and built in accordance with strict safety standards.

The group works closely with government officials, industry leaders and consumer groups to educate parents and caregivers in selecting the safest products.

This installment of the baby safety series contains an overview of tips about some of the most common baby furniture/equipment items.

For a more comprehensive list, visit www.jpma.org.

Changing Tables

• Purchase a table with elevated sides to help prevent the baby from falling.
• Never leave the baby unattended on the changing table, even for a second.
• Gather all necessary items – diapers, wipes, ointment – before placing baby on the table.
• Use a restraint system if the table is equipped with one. 
• Keep one hand on baby at all times.

Bassinets/Cradles

• Ensure that bassinet has a sturdy bottom and a wide base.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines regarding appropriate weight and size of the baby using bassinet/cradle.
• Do not use extra padding or pillows and be sure the mattress fits snugly in the bassinet.

Strollers

• Always use the stroller’s restraint system.
• Use the brake to keep the stroller from rolling.
• Engage locking device so that stroller will not fold up accidentally.
• Do not hang items on stroller handles.

Swings

• Ensure that swing has sturdy construction and that base is wide enough to prevent tipping.
• Do not leave the baby unattended in the swing.

High Chairs

• Always use the chair’s restraint system.
• Secure safety latches on folding high chairs.
• Ensure that the high chair is far enough away from walls, counters and furniture so the baby cannot push off from them and tip over.
• Do not leave the baby unattended in a high chair.

Portable Hook-on Chairs

• Check the stability of the table before using it.
• Never use a portable hook-on chair on glass tabletops, tables on a single pedestal or table leafs.
• Do not use over placemats or tablecloths.

Bouncer Seats

• Never place the seat on soft surfaces such as beds or sofas.
• Do not place on any elevated surfaces like countertop or table.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines regarding baby’s weight and size.
• Remember that baby’s bouncing can cause the seat to move.  Use care where the seat is placed.
• Do not leave the baby unattended in the bouncer seat.

Walkers

• Purchase a sturdy walker that is appropriate for the baby’s size and weight.
• Use walker only on smooth, level surfaces.
• Keep stairways blocked and doors closed.
• Remove throw rugs while baby is using a walker.
• Keep baby away from appliances that could cause injury – radiators, ironing boards, ovens, fireplaces.
• Do not leave the baby unattended in the walker.
• Do not carry a walker while the baby is in it.