Stay Safe on the Go with these 5 Stroller Safety Tips

Strollers can definitely make parents' lives easier. But did you know that thousands of kids end in the hospitals due to stroller-related accidents?

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Strollers are nice to have especially when you want to take an afternoon walk in the park, go for a jog, or even make a quick errand. It makes carrying the baby easier and faster. But, did you know that each year 17,000 kids are taken to hospitals because of stroller-related accidents?

Here are 5 safety steps you can take to protect you and your child.

1. Stay alert at all times.

This may sound obvious but, it’s should always be reiterated. Avoid using your phones, taking calls or texting while pushing your kid in a stroller. Even a split second distraction can cause an accident to you or your child. Be vigilant at all times and never leave your child unattended even when they’re sleeping.

Moreover, overuse of strollers, carriers, or even car seats increases the risk of SIDS. These devices are made for convenience and not for comfort. On an average, your child should only be in a stroller for not more than 2 hours a day. Once it’s convenient, transfer your baby from the stroller to a flat and firm surface.

2. Make sure they’re buckled.

Some parents would rather avoid buckling their kids because they feel it’s straining their kid’s movement. This is a big no and it’s not a safe practice. Buy strollers that have a 5-point harness or seat belt. This type of harness will protect your child even from falls. It’s also important that you read the stroller manual properly so you know how to immediately unlock the harness mechanism in case of emergency.

3. Don’t hang things on the handle.

It’s not safe to hang things on the stroller handles because doing so might cause it to tip over backward and injure your kid. The best way to store your stuff in a stroller is by placing it in the compartment underneath. You can also consider using a stroller organizer to create more space.

4. Use the brakes at all times.

You have to make sure you properly park your stroller by using the brakes. Make it a habit to engage the breaks whenever you are not moving. This is to avoid potential sliding or falls.

5. Maintain and keep your stroller clean.

Just like your car, your stroller needs regular maintenance and cleaning. Make sure you inspect all the moving parts including the wheels and brake mechanism. Ensure that there is no debris that may prevent or block these mechanisms from operating properly.

Additionally, you have to ensure that your stroller is properly kept. Avoid placing it somewhere hot to prevent the plastic parts from melting. Never store it outside because it can get exposed to the environment and develop rust. Make sure that you remove any detachable parts before folding and storing. A well-kept stroller will not only appear great but, feel great too.

There’s no use buying an expensive stroller if you don’t know how to keep your kid’s safe from injuries. It’s never too late to change bad stroller habits. Start practicing these safety precautions now before it’s too late.

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