Our children’s safety is obviously one of the most important aspects of parenting. It is necessary to understand current safety standards, why buying used furniture is not always the best idea and what you can do to guarantee your child’s safety. In addition, the government has minimum standards that impact buying options for baby furniture, but there are a number of companies whose products exceed those standards. Once you know who produces the safest items, you’ll know the best options to consider while choosing baby and toddler care products.
What is the Difference in Safety Belts and restrictive Devices?
Everyone is familiar with the seat belts that are part of every high-chair, stroller, car seat and other items your child will use. It is also well-known that they’re designed to keep your child from standing or falling out when they are tired of sitting. What you may not know is that there is more than type of seat belt to choose from.
The classic belt is one that just clicks one part into the other. A safer option is known as the five-point restraint. As its name suggests, it connects from a total of five different places that will reduce the impact or strain that happens if an accident occurs. It also keeps them more securely in the seat, which can be very helpful if you have a child who doesn’t like to be contained. Some items have a three-point restraint, which is better than the basic model, but not nearly as good as the five-point restraint. Do your research into the types of belts that your baby items present with, so that you will know what the best items are now.
One significant problem, even in child care facilities where they should know better, is not using a seat belt. They are on swings, infant seats, bouncers and changing tables, yet all too often babies and toddlers are placed at risk because people forget this one small step. Remember, just because your son or daughter has not rolled over yet, it doesn’t mean they won’t do so the minute your back is turned.
That’s so Sweet; Grandparents Have Kept the Baby Furniture
Many grandparents have saved all of their baby furniture, clothing and toys from when their children were little, dreaming of the day that the next generation would use them. Unfortunately, most if not all, of those items are not safe for use. They could have lead paint, drop sides or simply not meet current safety standards. Just because that generation survived their use, isn’t a good enough reason to use them today.
Another item to be cautious with is car seats. Unless you know the person who owned it previously, never accept a used car seat. Any car accident is likely to damage it, so that it loses safety features.
Every child deserves a safe environment. Taking a few minutes to verify safety features can prevent injuries later on.
