A baby stroller is one of the biggest gear purchases that many parents make and is essential when it comes to taking baby along for walks, runs, shopping excursions, and other activities. With all the things a parent has to think about in a day, baby stroller safety might not always cross their mind.
If you are using a baby stroller, there are some specific safety tips you should follow to ensure you and your little one have safe and fun outings together.
Do’s and Don’ts of Baby Stroller Safety
Keeping your baby safe is your number one priority as a parent. When using any baby stroller, it is important that you read and follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions for your stroller first and foremost. You should also follow these do’s and don’ts of stroller safety to keep your child safe.
Baby Stroller Safety Do’s
- Do make sure the stroller is completely opened and locked into place before using it-Listen for the “clicks” and make sure that the stroller is completely open before placing your baby into it.
- Do stay close to the stroller-Even if your stroller is equipped with brakes, you never want to leave a stroller unattended.
- Do strap your baby in securely-Always buckle the harness and seat belt when you are using a stroller, especially when they get older and could wiggle free.
- Do use your brakes-Get in the habit of using the stroller brakes when you stop, even when on flat surfaces.
- Do avoid direct sunlight-Babies can sunburn and overheat very easily as they have a more difficult time regulating their body temperature than adults. Never leave the stroller in direct sunlight for any long period of time and store the stroller away from the sun.
- Do ensure that mounted toys are attached securely-As your child gets older they will most likely need toys to engage them and keep them busy. Make sure that any toys that are mounted on the stroller are secure to avoid them falling onto your baby and injuring them.
- Do your homework-If your stroller came with a warranty or registration card, fill it out and send it in in case of recalls. If you are using an older or used stroller, make sure there are no recalls and ensure the stroller is still in safe, working order. While strollers do not have an expiration date like a car seat, if the stroller looks like it is passed its usable life, do not use it. And, if the stroller is a model with a car seat, remember the car seat itself may be expired and should not be used in the car, only with the stroller.
Baby Stroller Safety Don’ts
- Don’t hang items from the handle-A diaper bag, purse, or anything heavy can cause a stroller to tip and should be stored appropriately and not hung from the stroller handle.
- Don’t use your phone while pushing the stroller-Using a cell phone is distracting and just like driving and cycling, you should avoid using a cell phone while using a baby stroller.
- Don’t choose a baby stroller with separate footrests-Always choose a stroller that has a single footrest, even on a double stroller. Small feet can get trapped between separate footrests.
- Don’t use a recalled stroller-If a stroller has been recalled for any reason, do not use it.
- Don’t use a stroller that is not age appropriate-Babies aged 6 months or younger need to be able to recline as they cannot hold their head and neck upright. Avoid most jogging strollers and umbrella strollers that do not recline.
- Don’t leave your child in a stroller or travel system for longer than two hours at a time-Most baby experts agree that leaving your child in a stroller or car seat that is part of a travel system for longer than two hours can contribute to gastrointestinal issues, breathing issues, and can lead to the development of a flat spot on the back of their head.
Getting out with your baby should be fun and as stress free as possible. If you follow these baby stroller safety tips, you will make sure that your outings are safe as well.
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