Crib Safety (1204)

Crib accidents have seriously injured and even killed babies. Look for these things when shopping for cribs:

- Slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches apart, so baby can't wiggle through, become trapped, and choke.

- If the paint contains lead, strip and repaint the crib with paint designated for baby products. Cribs manufactured after 1977 are not painted with lead paint.

- Be sure there are no sharp metal edges or splinters. Crib sides should be high enough so baby can't fall or roll out, even when the sides are down.

- The manufacturer's name and the crib's model or code number should be permanently labeled on the crib in case there is a recall. The mattress should be firm and fit tightly against all four sides of the crib. If you can fit two or more fingers between the mattress and the sides, get a better-fitting mattress.

- If using bumper pads for newborns, the pads should be tied in place with six or more straps. Remove bumper pads when baby becomes active. Baby doesn't need a pillow; it could cause choking.

- Don't use a crib with decorative cutouts in the ends. Remove corner posts that stick up more than 1/16 of an inch above the crib's sides. A baby can get his neck or clothing caught and choke.

Make sure all hardware is in place and properly installed.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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