Safety Guide for Expectant Mothers

Traffic safety

• Always wear a seat belt; it is the best protection for you and your unborn child.
• Place the shoulder belt across your chest (between your breasts) and away from your neck.
• Adjust the lap belt across your hips and below your belly.
• Never place the lap belt above or on your belly.
• Never place the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm.
• Always buckle your seat belt even if vehicle has airbags.
• Airbags work with seat belts.
  • If you are not wearing a seat belt, you can be thrown into an opening airbag, seriously injuring you and your unborn baby.
  • Wear your seat belt and leave the airbag switch on. They work together to protect you and your unborn baby.
• To adjust the seat:
  • Move the seat back to keep your chest at least 10 inches away from the dashboard or steering wheel. Make sure the pedals can be reached if driving.

Bathtub safety

• Use non-skid mats in a bathtub and on the floor near the tub or shower.
• Have a person nearby to help you step out onto the floor, if necessary.

Preventing falls

Mothers 6-9 months pregnant sometimes lose their balance.

• Avoid walking on uneven, slippery surfaces.
• Avoid climbing ladders/stepstools.
• Hold onto the rail when going up and down stairs.
• Wear sturdy, low-heeled shoes.

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

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