Baby Safety: Simple Steps for a Safe Start

By Dr. Kelsey Izzo, Pediatrician, Director of Pediatrics, Oak Orchard Health 

Bringing a new baby home is exciting — and a little overwhelming. Between feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights, safety can sometimes get overlooked. But a few small habits can make a big difference in keeping your baby safe and healthy.

Car Seat Safety
Your baby’s car seat is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you own. Babies should always ride in a rear-facing car seat until at least age two. The harness straps should fit snugly, with the clip at chest level — not at the belly.

In the winter, avoid putting bulky coats or blankets under the harness. These can keep the straps from fitting tightly. Dress your baby in a snug outfit, then place a blanket over the harness for warmth. If your baby’s car seat has a cover, that can help keep them cozy without affecting safety.

Safe Sleep Practices
Every baby should start sleep on their back for naps and bedtime at least until they are one year old. This position lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet — no pillows, stuffed animals, or loose blankets.

Babies can be swaddled during the first few months, but once they start rolling (around four months), their arms should be free.

It’s safest for your baby to sleep in your room, but not in your bed. Keep the crib or bassinet near your bed for the first six months. Sharing a sleep surface, like a couch or adult bed, increases the risk of suffocation or falls.

Keeping Warm, But Not Too Warm
Babies can’t regulate their temperature as well as adults. A good rule is to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear. To check if your baby is too hot or too cold, feel their chest, not their hands or feet. If you’re ever in doubt about clothing or blankets, remember that overheating can increase the risk of SIDS.

Avoiding Hot Liquids
A baby’s skin is very sensitive. To prevent burns, keep hot drinks and food away from your baby while holding or feeding them; a small spill can cause serious burns.

When warming bottles, avoid using a microwave. Microwaves can create hot spots that burn your baby’s mouth. Instead, use a bottle warmer or place the bottle in a bowl of warm water until it reaches a comfortable temperature.

Protecting from Secondhand Smoke
Babies’ lungs are delicate, and even small amounts of smoke can cause breathing problems or raise the risk of SIDS. If someone in the household smokes, they should always smoke outside, wash their hands, and change their jacket or shirt before holding the baby. The best option, of course, is to quit — but any step that reduces exposure helps protect your baby.

Pets and Infants
Never leave your baby unsupervised around pets, even trusted family dogs or cats. Cats can accidentally suffocate newborns by snuggling too closely, and dogs may react unpredictably to sudden movements or cries. Always keep your baby within arm’s reach when animals are nearby.

Baby-Proofing the Home

As your baby grows and starts to crawl or walk, home safety becomes even more important. Begin baby-proofing early, before your baby is mobile.

• Cover electrical outlets and keep cords out of reach.

• Use baby gates to block stairs.

• Lock cabinets that store cleaning supplies or medicine.

• Remove small objects that could be choking hazards, especially for children between 6 months and 3 years, who love to put things in their mouths.

• Creating one safe play area — such as a playpen or baby-proofed room — can give you peace of mind and let your little one explore safely.

Raising a baby comes with challenges, but safety doesn’t have to be complicated. A few smart habits and regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help ensure your baby grows healthy, happy, and safe every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a pediatrician or medical provider to care for your child, contact Oak Orchard Health.