It’s hard to match the joy and anticipation of a baby’s arrival. Amid all the excitement and planning – and likely some nervousness – it’s understandable that new parents may inadvertently overlook some of the hundreds of details that go into baby preparations. That’s why reminders, like Baby Safety Month, offer an ideal opportunity to review and implement basic but essential safety measures at home and on the go.

‍At Home: Creating a Safe Haven

Your home should be a sanctuary where your baby can explore and grow safely. Here are some crucial safety tips to consider:

1. Safe Sleep Practices. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing your baby on their back to sleep on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet that is free of soft bedding, pillows, and toys. Ensure that the crib meets the latest safety standards and avoid placing the crib near windows or blinds with cords.
2. Baby-Proofing Essentials. Begin baby-proofing your home before your baby begins crawling. Cover electrical outlets with safety plugs, secure heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tipping, and install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs. Keep small objects, sharp items, and toxic substances out of reach. Cabinets containing cleaning supplies or medicines should be secured with childproof locks.
3. Bath Time Safety. Never leave your baby unattended during bath time, even for a moment. Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C) or lower to prevent scalding, and always check the water temperature before placing your baby in the bath, 90°F to 100°F is ideal for most infants and toddlers. Use a non-slip mat in the tub and keep a hand on your baby at all times to prevent slipping. You might also consider a cushioned faucet spout cover to soften an accidental bump. Make sure all electrical appliances are far from your baby bathing area.
4. Preventing Choking Hazards. Babies explore the world by putting things in their mouths, so it's vital to keep small objects out of their reach. Purchase age-appropriate toys, but regularly check for small parts that could become worn or detached and pose a choking hazard. As your baby graduates to solid food you’ll need to offer small, manageable pieces, and avoid giving your baby hard, or round foods like grapes or nuts until they're older.
5. Safe Baby Gear. Ensure that all baby gear, such as highchairs, strollers, and car seats, meets current safety standards and that car seats are properly installed. Always use the harness provided with these items, and never leave your baby unattended in them.
6. Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety. Install smoke detectors in every bedroom and on every level of your home and test them monthly. Also, install a carbon monoxide detector, especially if you have gas appliances. Create and practice a fire escape plan, ensuring all family members know how to get out of the house safely in an emergency.

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On the Go: Keeping Your Baby Safe While Traveling or Visiting

Regardless of mode of travel to visit family and friends, it's essential to maintain safety practices outside of the home as well.

1. Car Seat Safety. Your baby's car seat is one of the most critical safety tools you'll use. Ensure that it's appropriate for your baby's age, weight, and height, and always install it in the back seat, rear-facing, until your child reaches the maximum height or weight limit of the car seat. Make sure the car seat is properly installed; you can have it checked at a local fire station or by a certified car seat technician. Also, both the AAP and the Federal Aviation Administration highly recommend you bring your baby’s car seat with you when traveling by air. Your arms will not adequately protect your baby in the event of severe turbulence or even a minor runway collision – and you will likely enjoy your flight more! Secure the car seat in the airplane seat the same way you do in a vehicle.
2. Safe Sleep Away from Home. When traveling, bring along a portable crib or play yard that meets safety standards. Avoid using makeshift beds or sofas, as they increase the risk of suffocation. Ensure that the sleep environment is free from pillows, blankets, and toys, just like at home.
3. Hotel and Vacation Home Safety. Regardless of any instructions you made during the booking and reservation process, be sure you inspect any hotel room or vacation rental for potential hazards before settling in with baby. Check for accessible electrical outlets, secure any loose furniture, and move harmful items like cleaning supplies or breakables out of reach. If possible, stay on the ground floor to minimize the risk of falls and ensure windows and patio doors are locked at all times.
4. Visiting Others' Homes. Proactive communication is key when planning a visit with your baby. Politely ask your hosts to help baby-proof their space, such as removing small objects, securing pets, and moving harmful substances out of reach. Offer to bring along your baby-proofing essentials, like outlet covers and cabinet locks, to make temporary spaces safer. If your baby is toddling and there is a swimming pool, ask what security measures are in place, like gate locks or sensors, and be especially diligent about watching your child in outdoor spaces.
5. Outdoor Safety. When spending time outdoors, protect your baby from the sun by dressing them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Use baby-safe sunscreen on exposed skin and keep your baby in the shade as much as possible. If you're using a stroller, ensure it's well-ventilated and never leave your baby unattended, especially in hot weather.

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Preparedness is Key for Baby Health & Safety

Baby safety is an ongoing responsibility that requires vigilance and preparation. By implementing these safety tips at home and while traveling, you can create a secure environment that allows your baby to thrive.

Preventative care is also an important part of baby safety and offers additional peace of mind as you embark on this incredible journey of parenthood. Be sure to stay up to date with your baby’s wellness checks through your Transocean benefits if you are enrolled in the Transocean Medical Plan, take advantage of your telemedicine and NurseLine benefits if you have any concerns about your baby.