Walking Outside with Your Baby - Safety Tips from Mace® Brand
The birth of a baby is an exciting time. More responsibility for sure, and you have to prepare for everything. Going for a walk with a newborn can be a perfect option, but always keep safety in mind when you head out for some fresh air and exercise. Your top priority as a new parent is to keep your baby safe.
CHECK YOUR STROLLER
You and your baby may be ready to go, but is your stroller? Check to make sure the wheels are spinning properly and make sure you know how to safely stop your stroller. This may sound simple, but test your stroller first without your baby in it so you are familiar with how the stroller works.
MAKE SURE YOUR BABY IS IN THE PROPER POSITION
If your infant car seat attaches to your stroller, make sure your baby is buckled and sitting up so her airway is open. If you have a bassinet stroller, make sure your baby is lying on her back. Some good advice for new moms is to keep your baby facing you so you can always keep an eye on her.
STICK TO SIDEWALKS WHEN YOU CAN
Sidewalks are best, and you shouldn't push a stroller with a newborn on gravel or rough paths. Remember to be careful around stairs, hills, and ramps.
PRACTICE SUN SAFETY
It is safest to keep newborn babies out of direct sunlight. One of the most important safety tips for walking outside is to try to walk in a direction so the sun is not shining directly on your baby. The sun's UV rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm, so you might want to consider taking an early morning or evening walk to protect your baby's skin and your own.
DO NOT HANG BAGS FROM THE STROLLER HANDLEBAR
The extra weight of a diaper bag, purse or shopping bag can cause your stroller to tip over. When walking with babies, you can safely store any bags or belongings in the stroller's undercarriage.
STAY FOCUSED ON YOUR BABY
We've all heard of the dangers of distracted driving, and the same applies to stroller pushing. You want to be alert to any vehicles, people, or animals you might meet in you path. So while you might feel the urge to check our phone or even a take a call, don't. Keep your eyes on what's ahead, and keep your attention on your baby.
Walking with babies in a stroller can also offer many health benefits.
WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR WALK
Some good advice for new moms is to bring along a few items to put in the bottom of your stroller, including water, an extra blanket, wipes, and a small kit for a diaper change.
For your safety, carry a personal alarm and a cell phone. It's always best to prepare.
Mace® Brand is committed to providing community and family safety through individual empowerment.
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