by Dawn Hawkins

Created on: March 09, 2009

Children are natural explorers. When they are first born they look around them in search of learning the basic things. They become familiar with their surroundings and people that they can trust. Babies don't move around much when you first bring them home. It's when they start to wiggle and jiggle that you have to be especially watchful of dangerous situations.

A falling baby has a potential to do great damage to themselves. The dangers can range anywhere from nothing at all to death. A bump on the head in just the right spot could cost your baby his/her life. It is imperative to prevent these types of situations from occurring.

Here are some tips to keep your baby safe once they start their bigger adventures:

Cribs

Babies sleep in cribs for a reason. They are safer for your baby than a bed. When baby starts to wiggle around a bit, do not lay them on a bed, couch or other furniture that puts them high off of the ground. Bassinets, baby seats and cribs will keep your baby safe from a fall.

If it is not possible to have one of the items named above, i.e. you are at someone else's home; Put pillows around the baby or lay them on the floor. Don't forget to put a soft blanket down first. You should be very careful about these actions because baby may have learned to roll over and forgotten to show you his/her new trick.

Baby Gates

When the baby starts to crawl/walk, it is important to keep baby gates up at stairway entrances and entrances that pose a danger to the baby if they were to enter. Baby gates will allow him/her to explore freely in the room they are in and keep them from exploring dangerous areas of the home.

Leaving Baby Unattended

Never leave your baby unattended. This is the number one way to ensure their safety. If you want them to be able to explore, follow behind them so they don't get into a situation where they could fall. Babies should not be allowed free reign to explore the house alone. If you do this, you are asking for trouble.

Beware When Baby is on The Move

Always be aware of what skills your baby has learned. Can they sit up, roll over, crawl or walk? Babies learn things that we don't realize right away. They may be sitting up in their crib at night without you knowing it. They are sneaky that way. Knowing what they are capable of is the first step in preventing falls.

Windows

Make sure that all windows are closed and secure. Little ones love to look out windows. They aren't aware of the dangers of hanging their heads outside. Make sure that you have screens in place and that your child does not have access to them when they are open.

It takes less than a second for your baby to find him/herself in a situation where they could fall, possibly to their death. Although death is an extreme situation, it is one of the possibilities of a fall. Keeping a close eye on your babies where a bouts is the best way to ensure their safety. You can never be too careful when it comes to your child. Take simple pre-cautions now that will save your baby from injury later.

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