New Safety Standards to Keep Your New Baby Safer in the New Year
CRIBS: All cribs sold in the U.S. with a manufacture date after June 28, 2011 must meet new federal requirements before being sold. These rules prohibit traditional drop-side rails, strengthen crib slats and mattress supports, and improve the quality of hardware—all through more stringent testing requirements.
CRADLES/BASSINETS: All cradles and bassinets manufactured or imported on or after April 23, 2014 must meet the new standard. The new standard addresses risks not previously covered such as mattress flatness stability.
PLAY YARDS: As of February 28, 2013, testing for play yards became more rigorous. Play yards must meet new safety standards that prevent entrapments, eliminate sharp-edged cracks and side rail collapse or forming a V when folded to prevent strangulation.
STROLLERS: A new standard for strollers and carriages becomes effective on September 25, 2015. Hazards addressed in the standard include the prevention of head entrapments, falls, pinching, cuts and amputations.
[one_fourth]
[/one_fourth][three_fourth_last]
A new report from CPSC found that about 75,000 children were treated in emergency departments nationwide in 2013 due to injuries associated with, but not necessarily caused by, nursery products. Tragically, more 100 children younger than age 5 die each year from nursery products. The majority of injuries were caused by falls, while positional asphyxia (when a baby cannot get enough air due to his/her position), strangulation, and drowning were among the leading causes of death. Some fatalities were attributed to the product and others resulted from hazards such as clutter and soft bedding in a child’s sleep environment.
Here’s what you can do:
- Remember! Never add clutter, such as pillows, quilts or comforters, to any crib, play yard, bassinet or cradle.
- Always place baby on his/her back on a firm tight fitting mattress with a fitted sheet.
- Positioning devices are unnecessary and can also be deadly.
- Always keep ALL cords and monitor parts out of the reach of babies and young children – at least 3 feet away.
So consider newer, safer nursery products that are available and take simple steps to place your baby Safe to Sleep®.
