Posts Tagged safety standards
Stroller Safety & Usage Guidelines
Posted by in Babies on February 13th, 2010
Spending quality “strolling” time with your child should be an enjoyable and safe experience. Stroller safety guidelines are designed to give you tips for the usage of your new or existing models, keeping your precious cargo happy and safe.
PRE-OWNED STROLLERS
• Safety: Because your child depends on your judgment for their safety, it is up to you to make sure that a pre-owned stroller is safe for use. Typically, if it is over 10 years old, it may not meet the current safety standards. A good resource to start the research process is the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov or and for federal recalls, www.recalls.gov to check for product alerts.
• Maintenance: Make sure that the stroller has been properly maintained. Check that all of the parts are in proper working order.
Important Checklist:
1. Structure: Is the frame structure sturdy? Look for an ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials) or JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Associates) sticker. This means that the manufacturer has voluntarily met all safety standards during the year of manufacturing.
2. Harness: Is the stitching secure and the buckles all work? Does it have the preferred five-point harness that goes around the waist, between the legs and over the shoulder? A three-point harness goes around the waist and between the legs and should only be used for older children.
3. Wheels: Are the wheels tight? Do they roll properly?
4. Breaks: Does the stroller have breaks and do they work?
5. Cleanliness: Is the stroller clean and free of mold and allergens?
NEW STROLLERS
• Manufacturer’s Directions: The manufacturers have tested their product and should be used accordingly to ensure the safety of your child. What might work for one model may not be correct with another design or brand. It is IMPORTANT that you read all of the operating instructions and USE THEM!
• Registration Card: Fill out the registration card so if there are any safety alerts or recalls, you will be informed by the manufacturer. Remember, your child depends on you for their safety.
• Size and Weight: Your new stroller should be appropriate for the size and weight of your child. Lie infants flat and fully reclined or use a travel system where a car seat can be attached. As the child ages, be aware of the manufactures weight limits. If the wrong size is used, it can become unbalanced and put your child in danger.
• The Perfect Strollers Buyers Guide: For additional information regarding purchasing a new stroller, please read The Perfect Strollers Buyers Guide located in the education section at http://www.strollergalore.com/articles/
USING YOUR STROLLER
• Opening and Closing: Watch the little fingers! Keep your child at a safe distance when opening and closing. Once opened, completely lock it into place before placing you child in the stroller. Refer to your owner’s manual as products open and close differently.
• Buckle Up! The harness is there for a reason, to keep your child safe! Get in the habit of properly buckling up with EVERY use. The safest models have a five-point harness that goes around the waist, between the legs and over the shoulder. A three-point harness goes around the waist and between the legs and should only be used for older children.
• Brakes: Strollers can easily roll away even on the slightest incline. As with buckling up, get in the habit of always using the break when you remove your hands. The breaks should be on when inserting and removing your child.
• Storage Areas: Babies require numerous supplies and it is tempting to overload. A stroller should not be used as a shopping cart nor should items be placed on your child. Hanging objects on the handles can also cause it to tip over and can be dangerous.
• Unattended Children: It only takes a second for something to happen to your child. Never leave your child unattended.
• Sleeping Child: Close off the leg opening so your child cannot fall through in the carriage or reclined position. If the openings do not close, keep the seat backrest upright. If you have a reclining model, make sure that it is in the properly locked position so the child does not fall backwards when reclining.
• Weather protection: Use the sun canopy for protection. Whether you have a classic design, jogging stroller or bicycle trailer, there are additional add on products that you can purchase to protect your child from the elements. It is encouraged that you have the weather protection gear.
• Maintenance: Life with a baby is often hectic but it is very important for the safety of your child to do regular safety checks.
Maintenance Checklist:
1. Structure: Is the frame structure sturdy?
2. Harness: Is the stitching secure and the buckles all work?
3. Wheels: Are the wheels tight, free of obstructions and roll properly?
4. Breaks: Does it have efficient brake pads?
5. Cleanliness: Is it clean and free of mold and allergens?
Share new discoveries with your child and keep your child safe by using these stroller safety guidelines.
ENJOY YOUR STROLL!
Julie Krenn is a stroller expert for Stroller Galore. Our Mission is committed to serving our communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs and products dedicated to children safety.
RESOURCES:
If you are interested in purchasing a new stroller, we encourage you to check out The Perfect Stroller Buyers Guideline or visit us at http://www.strollergalore.com/,
Consumer Product Safety Commission: http://www.cpsc.gov/,
Federal recalls & product alerts: http://www.recalls.gov/
Article Source: Stroller Safety & Usage Guidelines
To Refinish or Not To Refinish a Baby Crib
Posted by in Babies on February 12th, 2010
Some parents may want to refinish a cherished heirloom baby crib. Before you start the project make sure you can complete the task. You need the right attitude and you can not be overwhelmed by the amount of work involved, or be too impatient to complete the job. This project will take a number of days.
First step is inspecting the baby crib. Old cribs may not meet all the current safety standards. Never use on old crib that hasn’t been thoroughly inspected. Any of these items are a potential hazard to the safety of your child.
1) Any damage on the crib needs to be evaluated for safety. A woodworker may be able to help you with replacement parts. The crib needs to be very stable.
2) Any missing parts must be replaced. Some manufacturers may have supply parts or again a woodworker may be required.
3) Make sure the crib is assembled properly and all items are in working order, including the brackets for the mattress support. Many manufacturers will have their instructions on their internet site on the proper assembly.
4) It may be necessary to sand the crib to remove all splinters or rough edges,
5) The crib slats or spindles must be spaced no more than 2 3/8” apart. Several babies have sustained injury or death because they were caught in the slats that were too wide.
6) Any corner posts over 1/16” above the head or foot board must be removed. They can be cut off, and then the top must be sanded to a smooth finish. These tiny posts can catch a piece of clothing when the child begins the stage of climbing out of the crib.
7) Any cutout areas on the head or foot board should be removed or filled. You can cut the areas out and insert a solid panel, or place a solid panel over the cutouts and secure with recessed screws. The tops of the screws can be filled with wood filler and later painted.
Most older paints contain lead and must be removed. If you are in doubt, remove the paint or varnish. All chipped or peeling paint must be removed.
K Prince, Owner and founder of Princes Corner Store Company
http://www.princesbabycrib.com
Article Source: To Refinish or Not To Refinish a Baby Crib
Bassinets – A Nursery Consideration
Posted by in Babies on February 12th, 2010
By now you are probably well into your nursery design and preparation and don’t need another item to consider but I am now offering you some information on baby bassinets that hopefully you will consider. I apologize if I’m creating havoc in your plans!
Other than feeding and of course all the new attention by family and friends most of a new infants time is spent sleeping. Bassinets can be a very attractive piece of furniture for your baby to snooze away the day and ideally most of the night. You may choose from among oval bassinets, round bassinets, or rocking bassinets, just to name a few.
Most will have some type of canopy to help shade the interior from any harsh light. The canopy may be height adjustable. They may or may not include a bumper pad for the perimeter. If they do be sure that the pad can be attached to the framework so it stays in place.
Of course the mattress pad should be one that provides adequate support without be overly hard. The mattress pad should conform to certain safety standards. Fitted sheets are also a must for the bassinet. Don’t use a crib sheet since they are too large and the baby may become wrapped in the sheet.
Caster wheels can be a convenient item on your bassinet to wheel it into another room if desired. Please do not move the bassinet with the baby in it. Some bassinets have caster wheels that flip up out of the way thus converting the bassinet to a rocking cradle.
I leave to last the important part as far as I’m concerned – safety. If the bassinet you are considering is somewhat shaky, then forget it. If the bassinet seems to have metal, wood, wicker, plastic or whatever protrusions that seem unsafe, then forget it. You may find information on recalled bassinets at the site of the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.
And finally the accepted guideline for the use of bassinets in general is that if your baby is more than 20 pounds, or 3-4 months old, or sits up unassisted, pushes up, or rolls over then it is time to graduate to a crib. Please read and comply with the bassinet that you choose.
I hope this short article has provided some insight for you and helps you in your nursery selection.
Gary A. Larson is the owner of BabyBagsandDreams.com – a site devoted to the sale of diaper bags and other baby needs. You will find a fine selection of magnificent bassinets from Badger Basket at http://www.babybagsanddreams.com/badgerbasketbassinet/. Please come and enjoy your visit.
Article Source: Bassinets – A Nursery Consideration
The Basics of Baby Shower Gifts
Posted by in Babies on December 24th, 2009
A thoughtfully chosen baby shower gift will be cherished, both for the sentiment attached to it, and the need it is likely to fill. Whether you prefer something unique or creative, or take the practical road, the vast collection of baby shower gifts and baby gift baskets available, will provide you with just the right idea.
Baby Shower Gift – Firm Furniture Favorites: If you want to contribute a big ticket item to the baby nursery, help with the crib, crib mattress, and indispensable items such as a changing table, will be particularly welcome baby shower gifts. In this case, however, it will be sensible to find out exactly what is needed. You will have to ascertain whether a classic, sleigh design will fit in with the nursery décor, or if a more contemporary look will be suitable. Any crib also has to meet the required safety standards. In this case, a gift certificate may even be in order, allowing the prospective parents to make their own choice.
Baby Shower Gift – Traveling Trends: Another quite expensive, must-have item for every newborn, is a quality car seat. This is a baby shower gift that will be used almost daily for a number of years. Buying from a reputable manufacturer is vital, to ensure durability and the necessary safety standards. Other items in this category, are strollers, jogging strollers, with carriers as a less costly option.
Baby Shower Gift – Bedding For A Snug Little Bundle: If you know what the theme in the nursery will be, you can assist by buying suitable bedding as a baby shower gift. Adorable bedding sets are available, to suit every possible theme and color scheme. Choose from plaids and patchwork sets, to cute characters, to animals big and small, to cars and trucks, to sea-life themes. Basic sets include sheeting, a bumper, and a quilt. More extravagant sets cover items such as curtains, lamps, wall paper borders, diaper bags, and many other extras.
Baby Shower Gift – Nursery Paraphernalia: Search for baby gift baskets with quality items no nursery can be without, such as pacifiers, bibs, soothers, lotions and potions, hooded towels, mealtime necessities, and all those little things that can ease a new parent over the bumps of the first few months. If you want to make it more personal, choose a caring collection, and make up your own bountiful basket.
Baby Shower Gift – Nurturing Little Minds: A wide variety of gift ideas target development, and the stimulation of senses. These include educational toys, textured items that encourage development of the sense of touch, and classical music cd’s and videos. One of these is the ‘Baby Mozart’ video, which will delight any baby for many hours. This baby shower gift is a useful tool for teaching new words, and creating an awareness of color and size concepts.
Baby Shower Gift – Toys And Baby-Gear Galore: Toys and adorable baby clothing are always on the wishlist of soon-to-be parents. No baby has ever complained about having too much of these! The most difficult aspect, is choosing from the vast array of styles, collections, and trinkets.
Baby Shower Gift – Pamper Exhausted Parents: While the main focus at a baby shower is on the baby, a considerate ‘extra’ may be a gift basket to perk mom and dad up, after yet another sleepless night. Use your imagination, and collect a few spoil-yourself items, such as chocolate, bubble bath, scented candles, a magazine or two, and any other pampering products. Your gift will be remembered with fondness, and gratitude for your thoughtfulness.
In the end, it is not how much you spend that matters. What is important, is the thought and care that went into the baby shower gift.
Find tips about gum pain, gum cyst, gum cyst symptoms, increasing energy, how to increase stamina , tips on increasing stamina and other information at the Health And Nutrition Tips website.
Article Source: The Basics of Baby Shower Gifts
Getting a Baby Crib that’s Safe & Reliable
Posted by in Babies on October 2nd, 2009
A new baby is usually regardes as a great asset to any family and a baby is one marvel which is shared equally by everyone in the family who will welcome the addition with joy and excitement. It’s likely that the most significant item of furniture which you’ll want to have ready when you are waiting for your child is a safe and sturdy crib. A nice one to consider is the Davinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib.
The crib will provide a haven where your infant can sleep, lie down calmly or play while waiting for you. As a result, it is extremely important for you to be quite meticulous as the time is right for you to find an acceptable crib for your small miracle.
As you start to shop for your baby’s crib, it is important that you think long and hard about the mattress your baby will sleep on. The mattress is generally the most important component of a crib. This one piece is more decisive, actually, than the crib’s frame. The mattress is in contact with your baby at all times, so it needs to be of a good quality construction. The mattress that is best for your baby should be firm, extremely durable and most of all, a protected spot for your little one to experience a good evening’s sleep.
When you begin your search for a new crib whether you begin at your local mall or perhaps by way of the internet, you could chance upon a plethora of brand names and shops which offer an enormous amount of various cribs. You may possibly stumble onto one of the more familiar names among the baby furniture world such as the well-known DaVinci. This company has been voted as one of the most dependable companies in the market since it offers a safe and fashionable crib. One of these cribs is the enchanting Davinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib.
DaVinci is famous for producing some exceptional crib mattresses, and the mattress which defines that skill is the DaVinci Emily 2 250 mattress. This mattress lives up to all consumer safety standards and then exceeds them by covering that mattress with a non-toxic and anti-microbial ticking. This mattress is furthermore very water resistant and is surprisingly durable. In fact, this mattress is so durable that it can continue supporting your little one until he or she reaches the advanced toddler stage.
You may be surprised to know that DaVinci offers a more extensive warranty than most companies. For instance its coil mattress has a warranty for 25 years. This is definitely more years than your little one will require a crib or toddler bed. Indeed, this crib is certainly a good purchase on your part.
Joseph Ramadan assists active, busy mothers in choosing the right stuff for their babies. Visit his site for reviews & great deals on the Davinci Emily Convertible Baby Crib.
Article Source: Getting a Baby Crib that’s Safe & Reliable
Baby Crib Safety Tips & Guidelines
Posted by in Babies on September 22nd, 2009
When looking at baby’s equipment with considerations of importance, it is fairly obvious that that child’s crib would be the most important based on how often and how long the baby sleeps in it. A crib is one of the major purchases that many new parents make when they have a newborn. Although it is preferable if the crib looks nice and works well with the decor in a baby’s room, the truly important factor to think about is how safe, and in addition, how sturdy, any given crib is. The overall safety of your child needs to be your primary consideration if you are contemplating the purchase of a new crib, such as the Davinci Annabelle Mini Crib.
SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is widely known about in the United States, and cribs might plausibly be the most obvious culprit in those deaths. Because of their potential link to SIDS, the federal government has released safety standards to be complied with in cribs produced since the year 1973. These standards were enacted to make certain that crib manufacturers and retailers only market products which meet or go beyond these safety guidelines.
Even though the government has standards to ensure the safety of cribs which are being sold today, parents are ultimately responsible to take responsibility for your child’s safety when deciding on and buying a crib. Keep in mind, this issue is about protecting and caring for our precious babies. Most parents would quickly tell you that their child is the center of their world and all precautions that could be taken towards protecting their baby are well worth it.
The first suggestion that should be followed when you are considering the acquisition of any baby crib is that there is no space between the frame and the mattress. Mattresses which do not follow this rule may enable an infant to accidently go beside it, allowing the mattress to eventually asphyxiate your child.A good crib to consider is the Davinci Annabelle Mini Crib.
Another important guideline regarding the mattress is whether or not the mattress is firm enough. An especially soft feeling mattress once again can conceivably cause asphyxiation because the the infant’s nose and mouth could be buried in it. Last but not least, the side rails need to be taken into consideration. The crib railings should be strong and close enough together that the baby’s head will not fit between them.
Prevention is always preferable to the alternate consequences, so it makes sense that you insist on safeguards against preventable incidents such as suffocation. The Davinci Annabelle Mini Crib is a nice, safe product for the baby.
Joseph Ramadan helps active, busy moms choose the right stuff for their babies. Check out his site for reviews & best deals on the Davinci Annabelle Mini Crib.
Article Source: Baby Crib Safety Tips & Guidelines
Britax Regent Youth Car Seat
Posted by in Babies on August 28th, 2009
The Britax Regent Youth Car Seat is made to be a comfortable, reliable, and safe option for older children who still need to sit in a child seat in the car. Designed for children up to 80 lbs, the Regent includes the highest safety standards and some of the most innovative solutions on the market.
Installation is made to be very simple for parents, with push button LATCH connectors and versa-tether anchor aids that secure the seat firmly in place. The tangle-free five-point harness is made of tough polyester that can resist wear and tear during years of heavy use. It attaches quickly, with one hand, without any complicated procedures or unnecessary straps. It also is fitted with convenient belt holders that that keep the harness off to the side so the child can enter the seat easily. Once inside, the harness fits over the shoulders, hips, and collarbone, and can be adjusted into four different shoulder slots to make for a snug fit over the child.
As safety goes, Britax is second to none in its reliability and innovation. The seat is equipped with the HUGS (harness ultra guard) system for maximum support and protection. Made of energy absorbing EPS foam, and a thick layer of comfort foam, the system softly and firmly supports the neck and chest, which can protect the child against the harmful forces of a crash and keep him or her comfortable and relaxed during long road trips. It also prevents improper fitting of the harness and chest clip. The entire seat is also lined with the EPS foam, so in the event of an accident, the child is safe as the seat diverts the harmful forces away from the body.
The seat is designed to make life on the road easy and stress-free for parents and children alike, and it contains many features that allow for an enjoyable car ride. First of all, the seat is made to be very comfortable; with the thick layer of foam lining that supports the child’s body from every direction. The plush padding can suit many quiet naps, and many peaceful car rides. Also, there are mesh storage pouches on the side so the child can have easy access to toys and snacks. Included too are cup holders, making the ride a little easier and less messy.
The Britax Regent offers some of the highest safety and reliability standards available, and their products reflect a genuine care for the safety and fun of car rides for both children and parents. The Regent brings many new innovations and thoughtful details that make children comfortable and give parents peace of mind.
Johnathan Ableser is the owner of a website provides detailed information on Car Seat Covers, Britax Regent Youth Car Seats , Custom Car Seat Covers and britax convertible car seats.
Article Source: Britax Regent Youth Car Seat
Baby Carriers – Backpacks Need to Be High Quality
Posted by in Babies on July 27th, 2009
For first time parents, choosing the best baby carrier backpack can be very tricky. Especially when there are a lot of baby carriers available in the market, you will be thinking twice on which one to get, because not all of those are the best for you and will suit you and your baby’s needs. There are some health risks in choosing low quality baby carrier backpacks – risks where a lot of us are generally unaware. Low quality baby carrier backpacks can be really uncomfortable, and most importantly, hazardous to you and your child’s health.
These health risks can cause you back and neck problems, and spinal alignment issues. It’s because low quality baby carrier backpacks can cause improper support thus results to bad weight distribution on your back when you carry your child. Additionally, when you feel uncomfortable wearing your baby backpack, you adjust your backpack, thus sometimes resulting parents to trip, fall or rattle their child in the carrier. This is one thing we don’t want to happen – injury to you or your child.
Recently high lead levels were found in many child toys, and did you know that baby carrier backpacks fall into that same category according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission? Although low quality baby carrier backpacks can be a health risk (because babies/children tend to put their mouths on the straps, and various pieces of the backpacks) the Consumer Product Safety Commission is allowing until 2010 for companies to comply with their lead standards. This means that sub-standard child carrier backpacks can still have potentially toxic levels of lead in their materials and still be able to sell them until 2010. Good companies such as Deuter (who have a great line of child carrier backpacks) have already complied with the lead standards and are tested safe. But many have not passed these lead safety standards…
Baby’s safety is essential in baby wearing. You wouldn’t want your child coming lose out of your backpack. That’s why the best thing to do is to get 5-point harness backpacks. It is color coded so you wouldn’t miss any strap to buckle. Keep in mind that not all backpacks have a secure and safe way of strapping your child. For us parents, we consider a lot of things in deciding on which baby carrier backpack. We should make sure that we get the one with the highest quality and well made backpack. Don’t end up wasting your money on some sub-standard backpacks. Then you’ll find that baby carrier backpacks are just the one that will suit you and your baby’s needs.
Don’t settle for a low quality baby carrier backpack that could be dangerous heavy, and uncomfortable. Visit QualityBabyCarriers.com for a collection of the highest quality baby carriers – backpacks specifically. QualityBabyCarriers.com has researched the safest, lightest, and most comfortable backpacks on the market today, don’t buy a backpack before you visit their site first.
Article Source: Baby Carriers – Backpacks Need to Be High Quality
