PARENTS
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
You can file this one under, "We don't mean to nag, but..."
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Somehow, it's the real basic stuff that always seem to fall through the cracks. These home safety projects won’t take long to check off the list, but if something serious happens while your family is sleeping, they just may save your lives.
If you're an expecting dad, these jobs are the perfect way earn that “Dads Rule” t-shirt. And it should go without saying that no one pregnant is allowed on a ladder!) Don't feel bad that you haven't tackled these home safety projects yet, but it's time to get on it. Like, right now!
Install smoke alarms. On every floor…inside and outside bedrooms.If you already have them, check to make sure they work. Keep extra batteries around.
Install a carbon monoxide detector in the hallway near your bedrooms.
Store an easy-to-grab fire extinguisher on each floor.
Make an escape plan in case of an emergency (like a fire) in case of an emergency (like a tornado, earthquake or fire.) Store extra food and water (…and diapers too!)
If you live one or more stories above ground level, keep a rope ladder and a fire evacuation hood on hand.
After you install your alarms and buy your extinguishers, give your insurance company a call. They will give you a healthy discount on your bill for taking all these precautions.
For more on baby sleep safety read Never, Ever Leave Your Baby on a Bed Alone and learn about SNOO smart sleeper. Not only is it the safest baby bed ever made, but it responds – all night long – to help stretch your baby's sleep, so everyone is better rested.
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
