Content Map Terms
Last updated: December 4, 2024
Overview
Babies are curious and can easily and quickly find themselves in harm’s way. Learn about the proactive steps you can take to keep your baby safe.
Creating a safe environment for your baby
It’s important to create a safe space for your baby, especially before they are mobile and begin to crawl. Babyproofing the space where you spend most of your time is a great starting point. Learn how to make informed decisions about equpiment you may use in your baby's first year like strollers and chairs. It is not safe to leave your baby unattended or leave your baby asleep in a car seat or stroller. Once you have reached your destination, place your baby on a safe sleep surface – even if they are only napping. Find out more information about equipment safety:
Choking hazards
As your baby develops and begins to be able to grab things and move, you’ll need to watch for choking hazards (especially when your baby starts eating solid foods). Young children’s mouth muscles aren’t well-developed, so you may want to avoid certain foods. Prepare foods carefully and make sure that you don’t provide food to your infant during car rides or while in a stroller. To keep babies safe, ensure their environment is free of any small objects, toys, debris or materials they may grab and place in their mouths.
Safe sleep
Your baby’s sleep environment is always important – day or night. Learn about safe sleep practices:
Sun safety
Babies have delicate, sensitive skin that’s easily damaged by sun. Learn how to care for your baby’s skin.
Shaken baby syndrome
Shaken baby syndrome is brain injury that occurs when someone shakes a baby or throws a baby against an object. It is never okay to shake or throw a child. Learn more: