Crib Safety (1070)

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 is old, it may contain lead that can poison baby. (Cribs manufactured after 1977 are not painted with lead paint.)

* 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 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.

* Use a firm mattress. Don't use fluffy comforters or sheepskin blankets under baby. And avoid using water beds. These are all choking hazards.

* Baby doesn't need a pillow; it could cause suffocation.

* Don't buy a used crib with decorative cutouts in the ends. Remove corner posts that stick up more than half an inch above the crib's sides. A baby can get his neck or clothing caught and choke.

* Healthy babies should always sleep on their backs. This is to help prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.) Keep cribs free of toys, stuffed animals, blankets, pillows, and extra bedding. Crib bumpers should be avoided unless they are thin and firmly attached to the side of the crib.

* Infants can wear sleepers instead of using blankets.

* If you must use a blanket, it is recommended that you place your baby’s feet at the foot of the crib and tuck a light blanket along the sides and foot of the crib, placing the blanket no higher than your baby’s chest.

* Only one baby should sleep in a crib at a time.

* Room temperature should be what would be comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.

* Check sleeping babies often.

* No smoking around babies.

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

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