Your Baby’s Safety - Birth to Two Months

Write down all the new physical, language and social advances baby makes.

If your baby was born early or has a disability, carry out the doctor’s orders and advice on how to take care of baby.

Crib

• Place baby to sleep on back to reduce the danger of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Do not use a drop-side crib.
• Keep crib or bassinette side up so baby is protected from pets, other children, and falls.
• Keep crib clear of loose blankets, bumper pads, toys, pillows, and strings.

Baby’s Bath

• Non-slippery surface.
• Shallow water, test temperature on your wrist.
• Hold baby’s head up with arm around back of neck.
• If you feel weak or ill, do not bathe baby in tub; give baby a sponge bath.
• Never leave baby, even with siblings.

Dressing or Changing Baby – Table, Crib or Floor

• Don’t leave baby alone on an elevated surface.
• Keep lotion, or other uncovered materials away from baby. Do not use powder.
• Keep caps, small objects, strings and jewelry out of baby’s reach.
• Place arms and legs carefully into clothing. Bending out of normal position can cause fracture or joint displacement.

Car Safety

• Use directions for installing car seat securely or have it installed by trained person.
• Use rear-facing infant car seat and place in back seat of vehicle.
• Vehicle should be safe and in good condition.
• Baby must always be in a properly buckled car seat, which should be reclined.
• Keep objects in car secured to prevent injury to baby during sudden stops.

Carriage/Stroller

• Strong and stable so it won’t tip over.
• Baby securely placed and strapped.
• At this age, stroller back should be reclined at about 45° to keep baby's chin off of chest and stopping airway.
• Keep face clear of blankets for breathing.

Sling or Front Carry Pack

• Correct size and material for age of baby.
• Keep baby’s head supported.
• Check that baby doesn’t slide inside and have trouble breathing.
• Make sure pack is tied securely to person carrying baby.

Safety – Environment

• Do not smoke or take drugs or alcohol.
• Don’t drink or handle hot liquids while holding baby.
• Keep area around baby clear of food, toys, small items, strings, jewelry.
• Maintain a functioning smoke alarm.
• Keep home clean and temperature about 70°.
• Learn Infant CPR.
• Keep emergency phone numbers handy for:
  • Doctor
  • Ambulance
  • Emergency room
  • Hospital
  • Fire station
  • Poison control
  • Nearest relative

Injury Prevention Service, OSDH, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73117
Revised September 2012

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