CRIB:

The safest bed for a child under 2 years old is a standard crib. Hand-me-downs or second-hand cribs made prior to 1972 may contain lead-based paint or have numerous dangers built into the design.

Although an antique crib may provide that final designer touch, a new crib has years of experience built into the design to provide a safe haven for your baby. When choosing, select a crib made after 1972 that follows all safety specifications.

Avoid placing a crib near windows. If a crib is near a window, make sure that drapery and miniblind cords are OUT OF REACH so as to prevent strangulation. Cut those cords to the shortest possible length so that they are impossible for your child to reach.

Keep the crib away from lamps or other electrical appliances. Lamp cords should be wrapped so as not to leave excess length available for a baby to chew or as a strangulation hazard. If possible, cords should hang down behind a large piece of furniture and be wrapped and placed out of a child's reach.

CHANGING TABLE

A changing table should have guardrails and a protective strap that should be used each time a baby's diaper is changed. Drawers and shelves should be easily accessible to avoid searching for items away from the baby.

Never leave a baby unattended on a changing table. Children learn in an instant how to roll over. They can fall off while you turn to look for a diaper.

BEDS:

A bed should have a simple headboard with no protrusions or decorative posts that may catch on a child's pajamas or clothing. The bed should be placed against a wall, preferably in a corner, to help guard against falls. Keep beds away from lower windows to avoid possible bumps or falls through glass.

Bunk beds may be great space savers, but they have played host to several deaths and injuries over the years.

MONITORING YOUR BABY:

Home intercom systems serve as great monitors for baby during the night and at nap times.

WINDOWS AND WINDOW TREATMENTS:

All windows should be made of tempered glass that prevents the glass from breaking into dangerous shards.

Drapery and mini-blind cords present a hazard in every home. Unfortunately, cords left in their reach have strangled many young children.

Blind and shade cords should be retained on wall cleats and drapery cords should be securely attached to a wall or baseboard to avoid accessibility.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS:

Electrical outlets should be covered. Place dressers or changing tables in front of them whenever possible to avoid a child gaining access to potential dangers.

Safety for Toddlers provides self-closing electrical outlet covers to help assure that parents will not forget to replace the cover after each use.

CLOSETS:

A child's closet should be free or wire hangers, mothballs, dry cleaning bags and any object with small parts that a child may choke on, sharp points that may cut or poke a child or closet hooks that may poke a child.