How to keep your baby safe?

When you have a child, many questions and worries arise, and one fundamental question comes to the fore: how do you keep your baby safe? Before the baby arrives, our home is a space designed for adults only — it is not, in principle, suited to welcoming such a fragile little being who demands so much attention. But safety is not limited to the home; it needs to be considered as a whole. So how do you approach this question?

Creating a safe environment at home

As mentioned in the introduction, and as a matter of clear priority: you need to ensure your child's safety at home. The place where your child will spend most of their time must be suited to them and must not pose a daily hazard — without requiring you to completely reorganise your home. Here are a few tips:

• Fit doors with finger-pinch guards to prevent trapped fingers
• Secure drawers and cupboard doors that may contain things they should not touch, using adhesive or magnetic locks
• Secure the oven door with a hook
• Be generally vigilant: sockets, overhead lights, unstable shoe racks, where the baby sleeps...

Out and about

Whether you are in the car or using a pram, always check that the baby is properly secured. In the car, choose a car seat with a good safety rating on the securange website and keep it rear-facing for as long as possible.

When your baby is looked after by someone else

Whether your child is being looked after by a friend or a family member, make sure the environment is suitable for them and do not hesitate to leave a few recommendations before you go.

Travelling: pack medication if the child is going abroad...

When you are planning a trip abroad, think about your baby's needs and be prepared without overdoing it: pop in to see your paediatrician before you leave — they can check the health recommendations for the country you are visiting and advise you accordingly.

Safety can be ensured everywhere, with quality equipment and useful gadgets — but your own vigilance remains the best prevention of all.