9 MONTH VISIT SAFETY GUIDANCE


TRANSPORTATION


USING CHILD SAFETY SEATS OR SAFETY BELTS FOR EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY FOR EVERY CAR RIDE


1.FACTS ABOUT DEATHS AND INJURIES FROM MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS AND USE OF SAFETY RESTRAINTS

  1. The leading cause of death of children ages 1 - 18 in the United States is from injuries in motor vehicle accidents.

  2. INJURIES that don't cause death can have long term consequences for the health and well-being of the injured person as well as for members of their family and significant others.

  3. SAFETY RESTRAINTS

    1. Seat belts saved an estimated 14,668 lives in 2016 (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - NHTSA).

    2. One in 3 children who die in a motor vehicle collision are unrestrained (American Academy of Pediatrics - AAP).

    3. In children younger than 1 year, using car seats decreases death by 71%.

    4. In children 1 - 4 years old, car seats reduce the risk of injury by 54% when compared to only using a seatbelt (AAP).

    5. In children 4 - 8 years old, booster seats reduce the risk of injury by 45% when compared to only using a seatbelt (AAP).

    6. In older children and adults, the use of seat belts decreases the risk for death and serious injury by about 50% (AAP)


2.THE DRIVER

To prevent harm in case of car accident, the driver:

a. Should stay alert and not be drowsy when driving.

b. Should wear a safety belt at all times. Safety belts have overwhelmingly been shown to save lives.

c. Should make it a habit to start the vehicle after all passengers are in safety belts or child safety seats (whichever is appropriate for age and size). This will prevent the passengers from moving around in the car which may distract the driver.

d. Should not drive when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The use of alcohol or drugs alters the driver's ability to react quickly and make safe driving judgements.

e. Should not use a cell phone or any hand held device when driving. Using one's hands for anything other than driving distracts the driver which can affect their attention to the road and create unsafe driving. Be aware that studies have shown that other forms of communication (including even hands-free communication and listening to the radio or talking to others in the car) can result in a decrease in attention paid to driving.


3.PASSENGERS

The following will best protect passengers from harm in case of a car accident:

a. Each passenger should be in a safety belt or child safety seat (whichever is age and size appropriate) for each and every ride, including short, close-to-home travel. Many accidents occur close to home. Infants have been killed while traveling on a parent's lap for only several blocks.

b. Passengers should ride in the back seat until they are 13 years old. This puts them furthest away from the most likely impact which is the front of the car. This also prevents them from being injured by the airbag which expands quickly and forcefully. The airbag is intended to prevent injury to an adult, not a child in the front seat. A younger child's smaller size makes the front seat airbags more dangerous to them.


4.IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE USE OF A CAR

To protect your baby when in a car other than your own, do the following:

a. If you have not gotten a car seat before now, plan to get a car seat for when your baby will be in your own or someone else's car.

b. Check with your pediatric clinic or local police department to learn about local resources available for donation of or reduced price for a car seat.

c. Call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration toll free at #(888) 327-4236 to learn about local programs that donate or offer a reduced price for car seats.

d. If you consider buying or getting a second hand car seat from someone you know:

1) Be sure that the history does not include an accident.

2) Look it over carefully to make sure it's in good condition.

3) Call the manufacturer (name and # should be on the car seat frame) to make sure there have been no recalls.

4) Be aware that newer car seats have an expiration date.

e. Buying car seats second hand from thrift stores is generally not a good idea, because there is no way to know the history of the car seat. Most thrift stores no longer accept car seats for donation.

f. Car seat loaner programs may be limited to those with health issues.


5. CHILD SAFETYSEATS

a. Up to at least 2 years old, your baby should be in a rear-facing child safety seat in the back seat of the vehicle.

b. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines about installation and age and weight guidelines. There are many different kinds of car safety seats available, and they are constantly changing. For this reason, certified technicians and information are now available to help parents. Parents are encouraged to contact a technician to check the installation of the car safety seat and learn about other important features about using them (see "KEY RESOURCES" below).

c. To provide the best protection in case of an accident, the harness should be snug enough that the webbing cannot be pinched between your fingers.

d. Do not put any extra padding or cold-weather clothing behind your baby's back in the car safety seat. For the best protection by the car seat, use only padding that comes with the car seat.

e. If your baby gets fussy, pull off the road safely before taking your baby out of the car seat. A fussy baby can be very distracting to the driver. Not having your baby in a car seat increases the chance of injury should there be an accident.

f. Be aware that newer car seats have an expiration date.


6.KEY RESOURCES TO LEARN ABOUT INSTALLATION AND USE OF CAR SAFETY SEATS

a. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a website for parents called "Parents Central" that contains important information, including how to find "Child Car Seat Inspection Stations" with certified technicians where you live: www.safercar.gov/parents The NHTSA toll free phone number is #(888) 327-4236.

b. Another way to find a certified technician to check your baby's child safety seat: http://cert.safekids.org and click on "Find a tech".

c. Technicians can also offer assistance with positioning for infants with special needs. For further information, click on "Special Needs" on the website www.preventinjury.org.


7. INFORMATION SOURCES

a. CDC guidance:

http://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/child_passenger_safety/cps-factsheet.html

b. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/7-great-achievements/Pages/Saving-Lives-with-Car-Seats-and-Seat-Belts.aspx

c. National Highway Travel Safety Administration (NHTSA):

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts

d. https://www.safekids.org/ultimate-car-seat-guide/basic-tips/right-fit/#share (testing for how snug harness is by pinching webbing plus clothing and other tips for car seat safety)

RISKS OF LEAVING YOUR BABY IN ANY VEHICLE

1. FACTS ABOUT OVERHEATING

  1. Leaving babies in cars by accident has been a growing problem that has resulted in child deaths due to heatstroke. Heatstroke is caused by overheating.

  2. Accidentally leaving your child in the car is most likely to happen when there is a change in family's daily routine.

  3. Babies should never be left alone in cars for any reason, because they may become upset and scared. This also puts them at risk for other unsafe situations.

  4. A baby can become overheated even when car windows are left open and the outside temperature is 60 degrees.

  5. Children's bodies can overheat up to 5 times more quickly than adults.


2. MAKE A PLANTO PREVENT LEAVING YOUR BABY IN CAR

"Look before you lock" Make it a habit!

a. When you put your baby in the car, put something in the back seat that you will need at your destination.

Examples: Employee identification, purse, wallet, cell phone.

b. Never leave your baby alone in the car, even for a moment, because you may get distracted and forget that your baby is there.

c. Make a habit of checking the back seat every time you leave your car.

d. If it is necessary for you to leave your baby in the car, do so only if a responsible

person is present (not young siblings, elderly persons).

3.INFORMATION SOURCES

  1. https://www.safercar.gov/parents/inandaroundthecar/heatstroke.htm
  2. https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ecd/interagency-projects/look-before-you-lock
  3. https://www.nhtsa.gov/child-safety/tips-avoid-child-heatstroke

ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING

LEARNING TO EAT SAFELY

1. DEVELOPMENTAL FACTS ABOUT STAGES OF LEARNING TO EAT

a. 5 TO 9 MONTHS

  1. Your baby will develop more interest and control in swallowing food.

b. 8 TO 11 MONTHS

  1. 1. Your baby will be able to move food around in their mouth.
  2. 2. Your baby's mouth will be able to mash and chew food.

2. YOUR BABY SHOULD BE IN SITTING POSITION TO EAT SAFELY AND PREVENT CHOKING

  1. By 9 months, your baby is sitting on their own.
  2. Your baby should be sitting while eating in a supported place such as a high chair.
  3. To avoid choking, your baby should NOT be lying back when eating solid foods.
  4. When feeding your baby, avoid interruptions that could startle them and cause choking.

3. STEPS TO TAKEWHEN FEEDING YOUR BABY

  1. Allow your baby time in between small spoonfuls to get used to the new texture.
  3. Progress to small, soft bites of food that fall apart easily in their mouth.
  4. As your baby begins to move food around in their mouth and learns to chew, gradually add foods that have more texture.
  5. Continue to introduce small (and then larger) amounts of foods that are known to sometimes cause allergies (such as foods made with peanuts) to help "desensitize" infants to such foods. This has been shown to decrease the likelihood of peanut allergy in older children.

4. UNDER 4 YEARS OLD, TO PREVENT CHOKING ON FOODS

  1. Children should not eat hard foods (nuts, popcorn).
  2. Children should not eat compressible foods (hot dogs, marshmallows) unless

cut into small bits.

  1. Children should not eat sticky foods (spoonfuls of peanut butter) unless in very small amounts.

KEEPING YOUR BABY SAFE WHILE BATHING

1. FACTS ABOUT WATER SAFETY

a. Babies do not have the head or body control in water to pick their heads or bodies up by themselves.

b. Babies can drown if left alone for just a moment even in just an inch or two of water,

c. Change the setting on your hot water heater to 120 degrees to prevent hot water burns.

2. HOW TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE

a. Never leave your baby alone in the bathtub or in any other body of water.

b. Hold onto your baby the whole time or be within an arm's length of your baby ("touch supervision") that baby is being bathed or in any other body of water.

c. Bath seats do not hold babies securely, so do not depend on them to keep your baby safe.

d. Your baby should be bathed only by parents or caregivers who understand the importance of safety in bathing and the risk of drowning (not young siblings, young babysitters, elderly relatives).

e. Prevent distractions (such as making phone calls).

f. Do not leave your baby for any distractions (such as incoming phone calls).

3. BATHING YOUR BABY

  1. a. Before bathing your baby, always run your hand through the bath water to test the water temperature to make sure the water is warm, not hot.
  2. b. If bathing your baby in the kitchen sink, do not run dishwasher and shower because hot water can come up in the sink drain. Also, do not flush toilets or use the shower at the same time, because this can suddenly change the water temperature in the sink.
  3. c. Drain bathtub immediately after bathing to prevent accidental drowning.

ACTIVITY (INCLUDING MOVEMENT, PLAY AND DISCOVERY)


PREVENTING FALLS

1. FACTS ABOUT FALLS

  1. Falls are the most common cause of childhood injury in the home and result in 1.3 million emergency department visits each year.
  2. The most serious falls happen from great heights and onto hard surfaces.

  4. Every year, injuries from falls in childhood cause about 60,000 hospitalizations.
  5. An average of over 275,000 children suffer traumatic brain injuries from falls each year.
  6. Furniture (such as televisions, shelves, and other heavy furniture) can fall onto babies if they push, pull, try to climb or climb up them.
  7. If babies manage to get on top of a piece of furniture (such as a bureau), they can fall because of the difficulty of getting down from it safely.
  8. Babies can fall out of windows if they are able to climb onto window ledges.

2.DEVELOPMENTAL FACTS

  1. Babies develop quickly, increasing their risk for injuries.
  2. Babies are too young to understand the consequences of their actions.
  3. When babies learn to crawl (as early as 6 months old), they can move quickly and can get out of sight.
  4. When babies learn to pull up to a standing position, they may quickly begin to learn to climb.
  5. Babies may fall more easily and more often when they begin to stand and then walk because it takes some practice before they get their balance.

3. FACTS ABOUT BABY WALKERS THAT ROLL

  1. Risk of injury is from rolling down steps, into things that can tip them over, into objects (heavy, sharp, or hot) that can fall on them, near items (edges of tablecloths) that can be tugged and cause items to fall on them.
  2. These accidents happen so fast that no one is able to react quickly enough to prevent them.
  3. These accidents can cause serious head and other injuries that may cause developmental complications.
  4. Since these walkers used to be very popular, they may still be available.
  5. Baby walkers do NOT help babies to learn to walk but may actually delay walking.

4. TO PREVENTFALLS FROM ABOVE GROUND-LEVEL SURFACES

  1. Keep one hand on your baby at ALL times when they are on a changing table, bed, couch or chair, etc.
  2. Keep needed items within your reach for diaper changing, play, etc.
  3. Take your baby with you if you must step away for a phone call, etc.
  4. Keep side rails of crib up at all times except when moving your baby into or out of the crib.
  5. Don't leave your baby alone on any above ground-level surface.
  6. When babies are being moved in a baby carrier of any kind, place it on the floor to prevent a fall.
  7. Keep the car safety seat harness snug enough that you cannot pinch any webbing between your fingers.
  8. Review these measures with anyone who cares for your baby

5. TO PREVENT FALLS WHEN YOUR BABY BEGINS TO CRAWL AND CLIMB

  1. Place gates at the bottom and the top of stairs.

  2. Close doors to keep your baby out of spaces where they are out of sight.

  3. Secure large, heavy, and tall furniture by using safety straps that are attached to the walls.

  4. Move furniture away from windows to prevent your baby from being able to climb onto window ledges.

  5. Place window guards on second story or higher windows.

  6. Place floor lamps behind furniture to prevent your crawling baby from being able to pull them down.



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6. TO PREVENT INJURIES FROM BABY WALKERS THAT ROLL

a Use activity centers which do NOT have wheels.

b. These activity centers allow babies to sit and stand without rolling.

c. They also have a wider base so they can not tip over as easily.


7. INFORMATION SOURCE

http://www.makesafehappen.com

(This is an excellent resource that lists safety tips by child's age, location, or risks.)



PREVENTING STRANGLING ACCIDENTS

1. FACTS ABOUT STRANGULATION

As your baby is able to reach, pull, and play, strings or cords can get wrapped around their bodies, including their necks, which can cause strangulation.

2. DEVELOPMENTALFACTS

a. How babies begin to move their bodies

1. Babies begin to sit around 6 months.

2. Babies start to crawl by around 6-9 months.

3. Some babies may walk before a year of age.

b. Babies first use their arms to reach for objects before learning to use their hands

to grab and hold onto objects.

c. Babies learn about the world around them by exploring it, including by putting

things into their mouths before they understand what is safe and what is not.


3. TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE, THEY SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO SEE OR REACH THE

FOLLOWING:

  1. Window blind or drapery cords that are dangling down from windows or doors

  2. Electric cords that are dangling between electrical appliances and electrical sockets on walls and along floors

  3. Elastic or string cords

  4. Rubber bands

  5. Toys or play equipment with loops or circles in their parts or as whole

  6. Items with rope or string attached

  7. Bracelets, necklaces

  8. Clothing with drawstrings, ties

  9. Telephone cords


4. INFORMATIONSOURCES

For further information, following are links to Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) websites:

https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5066.pdf

https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5095.pdf



PREVENTING CHOKING

1. FACTS ABOUT CHOKING

  1. Anything that your baby can fit into their mouth can cause choking by blocking their airway.

  2. Babies put things into their mouths as a way of learning about them before they know the difference between what should go into their mouths and what should not.


2. OBJECTS THAT CAN CAUSE CHOKING INCLUDE

  1. Items of different sizes: Small (button batteries, watermelon seeds) to larger (balloons, marbles, plastic bags, coins).

  2. Items of different textures: Chewy and soft (balloons, plastic bags, gum) or hard (nuts, hard candies).


3. TO PREVENT THE RISK OF CHOKING

  1. Check areas where your baby plays to remove from sight and reach any items that can fit into their mouth (including when visiting other places, especially those where children do not stay).

  2. Your baby should be within sight at all times and watched when awake by responsible caregivers (not young siblings or elderly who can't see well or move around easily).

  3. Bring your baby's own play mat and toys on visits to other places for safe play.

  4. Your baby should only play with toys that are recommended for their age.


4. INFORMATION SOURCES

a. American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) Healthy Children website divides choking hazards into items and food:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Choking-Prevention.aspx

b. KidsHealth has made a long list of small items that should be kept away from babies and young children:

http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/safety-choking.html#




PREVENTING POISONING

1. WHAT ARE POISONS?

a. A poison is any substance that causes illness, injury or death as a result of eating or touching it or breathing its fumes.

b. Poisons may be substances that are not intended to be eaten, swallowed, breathed or touched such as household products like cleansers that contain chemicals.

c. Poisons may also be substances that are intended to be eaten, swallowed, breathed or touched but are done so by those whom they are not intended or taken in amounts that are not recommended. Examples are common over-the-counter medications (such as Tylenol® (acetaminophen) and aspirin) OR medications that are prescribed for someone else.


2. FACTS ABOUT POISONING

  1. More than 90% of exposures reported to local poison control centers take place in the home.

  1. Poisons can cause illness, injury or death as a result of eating or touching or breathing their fumes.

  2. The United States has 55 poison centers which receive millions of calls each year. The majority of the calls are about coming into contact with dangerous or potentially dangerous substances.

  3. Poisoning may result in death or life long consequences from injury for the baby and those who care for the baby

  4. Over the counter medications such as pain relievers and fever reducers can be as dangerous as prescription medications.


3. DEVELOPMENTAL FACTS

  1. Babies are naturally curious and first learn about the world by looking around.

  2. As they grow and develop, babies learn about what's around them by using their hands to pick things up and put things in their mouths.

  3. When they begin to crawl, cruise or walk, they can more easily reach what they see which increases the need for safe surroundings.

  4. Babies are able to do these things before they understand the difference between what is safe to touch, feel, eat and play with and what is not.


4. HOW TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE

a. Medications, cleaners, and chemicals should be locked up and away (upandaway.org) in places that are also out of reach and sight of your baby, and in their original containers. Keep things in cabinets with child-resistant locks, but be aware that there is nothing that is 100% child proof. Here's a list of some items to keep out of your baby's sight, reach, or touch and in safe storage (www.AAPCC.org):

1) All medicines and pharmaceuticals, including over-the-counter medicines, prescription medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal preparations

2) Tobacco and e-cigarette products, especially liquid nicotine

3) Alcohol

4) Laundry and cleaning supplies

5) Pesticides and insect repellents

6) Button batteries, such as those found in musical greeting cards, key fobs, etc.

7) Any type of oil or lubricant, including fragrance oils, tiki torch oils, engine oil, etc.

8) Personal care products, especially contact lens disinfectants and hand sanitizers

9) Other chemicals

b. Get rid of any medications, cleaners, and chemicals that you don't need.

c. With a partner or friend as a "second set of eyes", completely look around your home to collect any medications, cleaners or chemicals that are not locked up.

d. "Childproof" your home on a regular basis by getting down near the floor and looking for things at your baby's level.

e. Your baby should be within sight of their caregiver at all times.

1) Young siblings should not be responsible for caring for your baby at home or elsewhere, because they are not mature enough to understand the need for safety precautions and the consequences of accidents.

2) Individuals who may not be able to be as watchful or as quick to move around babies as may be necessary (such as some elderly individuals), should NOT be responsible for caring for your baby at home or elsewhere.

f. When visiting places outside of your home, especially in which no children live or play, your baby should be watched constantly. It may be helpful to bring your own play mat and toys, but be aware that your baby may be more interested and curious about the new surroundings.

g. When people visit your home, make a space for them to place their belongings such as purses, coats, etc. that is out of reach and sight of your baby. This is important, because elderly people, for example, may keep medications in their purses or coat pockets.

h. Review labels on substances before using, especially before giving medicines. If you have questions, call your pharmacist to get them answered before giving medicines or the Poison Help number 1-800-222-1222.

i. Medicine should never be referred to as "candy."


5. HOW TO BEREADY FOR A POISON EMERGENCY

  1. Put the Poison Help number 1-800-222-1222 in your mobile phone and place it in your home with other emergency contact numbers and at work in case of emergency or if you have questions about the safety of products.

  2. You can also text POISON to 797979 to save the number in your mobile phone.

  3. The Poison Help number will connect you to a poison control center that is staffed with experts 24 hours each day every day of the year.

  4. The calls are free and confidential. (www.aapcc.org)


6. WHAT TO DO INA POSSIBLE OR ACTUAL POISON EMERGENCY

a. If you are not sure that a poisoning has occurred, it is best to proceed as if it is an emergency and immediately call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 to guide you until the situation becomes more clear. The poison control center has information about a large range of products. Treatment advice will depend on the type of poison involved. The child's age, weight, and medical history will also affect treatment.

b. To prevent death or injury, every second matters if a poison has been put in the mouth, swallowed, poisonous fumes have been breathed, or if there has been contact with the eyes, mouth, or skin.

c. There may be no signs in a potential poisoning, but that is the best time to proceed to call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222.

d. Some signs of a potential poisoning may include the following https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/poisoning-sheet.html?WT.ac=ctg#catsheets:

  1. Drowsiness

  2. Sudden change in behavior

  3. Unusual odor

  4. Pill pieces on the lips or clothes

  5. Heavy drooling

  6. Vomiting

  7. Confusion

e. Follow are some basic steps to take at the first sign of a suspected or actual poisoning (https://poisonhelp.hrsa.gov/faqs/index.html):

1) If the person BREATHED poison: Get to fresh air right away. Call toll-free Poison

Help 1-800-222-1222 which connects you to your local poison center.

2) If the person has poison ON THE SKIN: Take off any clothing the poison touched. Rinse skin with running water for 15 to 20 minutes. Call toll-free Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 which connects you to your local poison center.

3) If the person has poison IN THE EYES: Rinse eyes with running water for 15 to 20 minutes. Call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 which connects you to your local poison center.

4) If the substance can be seen IN THE MOUTH, stay calm to prevent upsetting the person who may be in the process of swallowing it and remove the substance if it can be done safely without getting bitten and then call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222.

5) If the person has SWALLOWED the wrong medicine, too much medicine or certain other substances: Call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 which connects you to your local poison center. Do NOT try to make the person vomit.

f. Stay on the phone line with the poison control center and follow their instructions. Do not end the call until the emergency is over or emergency assistance has arrived.


7. INFORMATION SOURCES:

a. www.aapcc.org (The American Association of Poison Control Centers)

b. https://aapcc.org/prevention/home

c. https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/child-safety/childproofing (This National Safety Council lists the "high risk zones" for poisons in your home.)

d. https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/other-poisons

e. https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/poisoning/preventiontips.htm (Good list of resources, including PoisonHelp which has in its info the "first steps to take" in a poisoning.)

f. https://www.cdc.gov/features/medicationstorage/index.html (Tips to storage of medications and link to "up and away" campaign.)

g. https://poisonhelp.hrsa.gov/faqs/index.html (This is the resource of the Health Resources and Services Administration that lists frequently asked questions including "first steps to take" in a poisoning.)

h. https://www.upandaway.org/ (Information on steps to take to safely store substances that could be poisonous including travel tips and tips for grandparents.)

i. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/poisoning-sheet.html?WT.ac=ctg#catsheets (Signs of potential poisoning.)


PREVENTING INJURIES WHEN NOT PROVIDING COMPLETE ATTENTION TO YOUR BABY

  1. When unable to provide complete attention to your baby (e.g. when using the bathroom, answering the phone, cooking, eating, etc.), be sure your baby is in a contained space that is safe.

  2. Areas such as play yards, high chairs, cribs or a stationary activity center can provide this kind of containment and safety for your baby in these circumstances.

  3. Keeping doors closed is one way to keep your baby out of areas where they could get hurt.



PREVENTING LEAD EXPOSURE

1. FACTS ABOUT LEAD EXPOSURE

  1. Lead exposure happens by eating, drinking, or breathing lead particles that are on or in items that contain lead or are in the air in the baby's surroundings. Once inside the baby's body, the lead particles then move into the bloodstream. The level of lead exposure in the blood can be measured and is called a "blood lead level".

  2. Lead exposure is known to be connected to children's developmental delays and/or learning difficulties. Having a zero level of blood lead in the blood is the safest for children.

  3. Common sources of lead in the home include:

  1. Dust

  2. Soil

  3. Water in lead pipes

  4. Toys

  5. Nutritional supplements

  6. Dishware

  7. Fishing sinkers

  8. Bullets

  9. Residue from parent occupations

  10. Paint/hobby materials

d. The major way that lead particles are able to enter the body is by eating paint chips or other items that have lead on or in them. Less likely ways that lead is able to enter the body are by breathing dust in the air with lead particles in it or drinking water that has lead in it.

e. In homes built before 1978, surfaces may have been painted using lead paint. If babies are able to reach paint chips and eat them or chew on surfaces and/or breathe dust that contains lead particles in or outside of the home, they may be at risk for lead poisoning.


2. SCREENINGFOR LEAD EXPOSURE

  1. Screening guidelines vary by location. When your baby is about 12 months old, your baby's health care provider will ask you some routine questions to determine whether your baby has potentially been exposed to lead.

  2. The purpose of screening for lead exposure is to determine whether blood testing is needed to learn whether there is lead in your baby's blood.

  3. If lead is found in your baby's blood, resources are available in communities to identify the sources of lead exposure and guide you in ways to rid lead as a risk from your baby's surroundings (called "lead abatement").

  4. If you have questions about lead exposure, contact your pediatric health care provider or your local health department.


3. HOW TOPREVENT LEAD EXPOSURE

  1. Clean and dust frequently to prevent your baby from the following:

  1. being able to put loose paint chips into their mouth.

  2. breathing dust that contains lead particles.

b. Your baby's hands should be washed after play and before eating to prevent breathing dust particles or getting paint chips or dust into their mouth.

c. Wash pacifiers and toys regularly.

d. Only cold tap water should be used to mix formula or for drinking or cooking.

e. If you live in an older home and when the water has not been run overnight or during the day, run the cold tap water for several minutes before using.

f. Well rounded nutritional practices that include sources of calcium (such as in milk, cheese, yogurt), iron (such as in beans, peanut butter, meat), and vitamin C (such as in fruit and vegetables) will help prevent lead from moving from the stomach (by eating, drinking anything with lead in it) into your baby's blood.

g. Close off areas that have peeling or chipping lead paint.

h. For smaller areas of peeling or chipping lead paint, cover the areas up with contact paper or duct tape.

i. After outside play in which there may be lead in the soil, take shoes off at the door to prevent tracking dirt into the house, wash hands, and wash any toys that were used outside.

j. Get rid of toys and items that are painted or made with lead.

k. When renovating a home that may contain lead, it should be done in a lead safe manner by contractors qualified to do so.

l. Household members who work in areas where they are exposed to lead (soldering, etc.) should remove their work clothes and shower as soon as they return home and before holding their children.


4. INFORMATIONSOURCES

  1. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Lead-Screening-for-Children.aspx

  2. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/parents.htm

  3. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/tools/know_the_facts.pdf

  4. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/tools/5things.pdf



FIRE/HEAT/ELECTRICAL


PREVENTING BURNS

1. FACTS ABOUT BURNS

a. A water heater setting of 120 degrees will help to prevent your baby from

hot water scald burns.

b. Hot liquids, including water, can cause burns on your baby's skin because it is thinner than adult skin.

c.Burns at any age pose a risk of infection, pain and scarring.

d. When your baby begins to crawl, they can move to places where there are items that are hot that can cause burns, such as space or kerosene heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, curling irons, blow dryers, hot oven doors.

e.The kitchen is the most dangerous room for children.


2. DEVELOPMENTAL FACTS

  1. Babies have good head control, can turn their heads to be able to see and hear what is around them and are beginning to sit on their own.

  1. Babies are able to reach their arms and hands toward items they see and grab items with their hands to hold and look at them.

  2. Babies do not know how to move on their own to avoid potential sources of burns.

  3. Babies do not understand the dangers of touching or pulling things over that are hot.


3. PREVENTINGHOT WATER BURNS

a. Change the setting on your hot water heater to 120 degrees.

b. Before bathing your baby, always run your hand through the bath water to test the water temperature to make sure the water is warm, not hot.

c. If bathing your baby in the kitchen sink, do not run the dishwasher because hot water can come up in the sink drain. Also, do not flush toilets or use the shower at the same time because this can suddenly change the water temperature in the sink.

4. PREVENTINGYOUR BABY FROM REACHING HOT APPLIANCES

  1. Put fences around wood stoves, fireplaces, and stoves, etc.

  2. Place gates in doorways to create a barrier between your baby and the item.

  3. Keep small electrical appliances such as curling irons, blow dryers, and their cords out of sight and reach of your baby.

  4. Your baby should be in a safe place such as a gated play area or stationary activity center while the stovetop or oven is in use.


5. PREVENTINGYOUR BABY FROM GETTING BURNED FROM HOT ITEMS

  1. Do not drink hot liquids, eat hot foods or smoke while holding or carrying your baby to prevent burns from accidental spills or from touching the hot tip of your cigarette to your baby's skin.

  2. Use spill-resistant travel mugs with tight fitting lids.

  3. Bottles should never be heated in the microwave. The contents of the bottle can heat unevenly and burn your baby's mouth and throat while swallowing.

  4. Put your baby in a safe place such as a high chair, playpen or crib while you are cooking, eating or drinking hot liquids, and unable to provide your full attention to your baby.

  5. While your baby is still only nursing or taking a bottle, try to have your meals and coffee/tea at a time when you can relax and devote some time to your own needs.

  6. Keep anything that is hot (such as cigarettes) out of reach of your baby.

  7. Prevent your baby from grabbing onto tablecloths that could pull over heavy or hot objects on top of them.

  8. Handles of pots and pans should be turned toward the back of the stove or table to prevent them from be pulled down.


6. PREVENTINGELECTROCUTION

Keep electric cords out of your baby's reach since they can put them into their mouth which can cause mouth burns or electrocution.


7. INFORMATIONSOURCES

www.flashsplash.org

http://flashsplash.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/SCALD-FactSheet_Booklet.pdf

http://flashsplash.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ChecklistForFamiles_Final.pdf



WATER


WATER SAFETY

1. FACTS ABOUT WATER SAFETY

a. Babies do not have the head or body control in water to pick their heads or bodies up by themselves.

b. Babies can drown if left alone for just a moment even in just an inch or two of water,

c. Change the setting on your hot water heater to 120 degrees to prevent hot water burns.

d. There is no evidence that swim lessons for babies reduce the risk of drowning.

e. Swim lessons may mistakenly make parents think that they can be less watchful.


2. HOW TO KEEP YOUR BABY SAFE

a. Never leave your baby alone in the bathtub or in any other body of water.

b. Hold onto your baby the whole time or be within an arm's length of your baby ("touch supervision") that baby is being bathed or in any other body of water.

c. Bath seats do not hold babies securely, so do not depend on them to keep your baby safe.

d. Your baby should only be bathed by parents or caregivers who understand the importance of safety in bathing and the risk of drowning (not young siblings, young babysitters, elderly relatives).

e. Prevent distractions (such as making phone calls).

f. Do not leave your baby for any distractions (such as incoming phone calls)

g. Completely pour water out of small pools, buckets, any other containers immediately after play to prevent accidental drowning.

h.Private or community swimming pools should have 4-sided fence that has been designed to prevent being climbed over and that has a self-closing and self-latching gate.

i. Your baby should wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket whenever they are on or around boats or other watercraft.


3. INFORMATION SOURCES

  1. www.uscgboating.org (United States Coast Guard website)

  2. www.unitedmarine.net (How to select an appropriate life jacket)



COMMUNITY & SURROUNDINGS


CAREGIVING OPTIONS FOR YOUR BABY

1. CHOOSING WHO SHOULD CARE FOR YOUR BABY

  1. Begin to look into caregiving options for your baby well in advance if you plan to return to work.

  2. Be sure to consider back up child care options for when your baby is ill and should not be in regular child care.

  3. Finding a child care site that is licensed to provide child care will help to make sure that basic safety guidelines are in practice. This includes child care businesses that are in homes.

  4. For contact information about licensed caregivers, check with your child's health care provider, local health department or local child care organization. Local child care advocacy organizations may be able to share information with you, including checklists about what to look for and other information that may be useful to you about your local area.

  5. Schedule times to visit the child care facilities or homes.

  6. Young siblings should not be responsible for caring for your baby at home or elsewhere, because they are not mature enough to understand the need for safety precautions and the consequences of accidents.

  7. Individuals who may not be able to be as watchful or as quick to move around babies as necessary (such as some elderly individuals), should not be responsible for caring for your baby at home or elsewhere.


2. IMPORTANCE OF REVIEWING SAFETY PRACTICES WITH YOUR BABY'S CAREGIVER

  1. Safety practices may be updated due to new information.

  2. Reviewing safety practices serves as a useful reminder of routine safety practices.

  3. Do a safety check of any locations where your baby spends time.


SAFETY WHEN AWAY FROM HOME

    It is important to be especially watchful of your baby in unfamiliar surroundings, because your baby may be attracted to new things that are safety hazards.

  1. Portable play yards or play mats may be useful when visiting others.

  2. Bringing along some of your baby's own toys may keep your baby busy safely.

  3. It is a good idea to do a safety check of any locations where your baby spends time, especially if in an area where babies are not usually present.


FIREARM SAFETY

1. FACTS ABOUT FIREARM ACCIDENTS

  1. Firearm accidents can best be prevented by not having any firearms in the home or in homes that are visited.

  2. Firearm accidents cause death or serious injury that can change the course of lives for those who are injured and for those who care for them. A study completed in 2018 revealed that about 8,300 children have gun-related injuries each year. Assault and unintentional injuries were the main causes of the gun-related injuries.

  3. Children are naturally curious about what is around them and may explore firearms in spite of being told not to, so it is the responsibility of adults who care for children to make sure that children cannot see, reach, touch, or be able to get to firearms if they are in the home.


2. IF THERE ARE FIREARMS IN YOUR HOME, THESE ARE THE SAFETY MEASURES THAT SHOULD BE FOLLOWED:

  1. Firearms should be kept unloaded.

  2. Firearms should be kept locked up. The adults who are responsible and knowledgeable about the firearms in the home should be the only ones to know where the key is or what the access code is. Children and others should not know how to get to the firearms.

  3. Ammunition should be stored separately from firearms.

  4. Ammunition should be kept locked up.

  5. The guidelines above should also be shared with and followed by those whose homes are visited.


3.INFORMATION SOURCE

Study published in 2018 (referenced above in "facts"):

https://consumer.healthday.com/public-health-information-30/gun-violence-976/gun-violence-among-u-s-youth-has-high-price-tag-739024.html