Babies “R” Us Toddler Safety Seminar

March 16th, 2008

Join Safety For Toddlers and Babies “R” Us for a toddler safety seminar. We’ll conduct a room-by-room presentation on making your home safe for baby.

The toddler safety seminar is scheduled for Tues., May 20, between 7 and 8 p.m., at Babies “R” Us in Meridian, ID.

Babies “R” Us
1200 N. Eagle Road
Meridian, ID 83642
Tel: (208) 884-0488
Google Maps

Good Travel Site For Parents

March 3rd, 2008

It’s not a travel site, exactly. But for the new parent seeking tips on traveling locally and abroad, check out DeliciousBaby.com. I enjoy their tips on whether to check the baby seat or carry it with you through the gate; airlines that are child-friendly; good travel games for kids; setting expectations when traveling with baby; and lots more.

Check it out. And let us know if you come across other good travel resources for parents.

Our Thoughts On Outlet Cover Inserts

March 3rd, 2008

I’m often asked about using outlet covers — specifically those two-pronged plastic outlet inserts. Bottom line — I’m not a fan of them. Let me explain why.

Choking Hazards
The general rule of thumb about dangerous objects around the house is that if one can fit into a toilet paper tube, it’s too small for infants and toddlers. For example, marbles, small rubber balls, stuffed animal decorations like plastic eyeballs, etc. Some cheap outlet inserts aren’t designed well and obviously fit into this category.

Read the rest of this entry »

Safety Legislation Needs Your Immediate Help

March 3rd, 2008

In our previous alert, we brought you up to date on the status of child passenger safety legislation, House Bill No. 462.

It may be heard in the House Transportation and Defense Committee sometime this week. This hearing would be the bill’s first step on its way to becoming a law. It has not been scheduled as of today.

This bill not only protects children, but it also makes Idaho eligible to receive Section 405 funding totaling an estimated $250,000 annually. These funds would be used to increase the use of seat belts and child safety seats. Idaho has been ineligible for these funds due to the current vehicle code.

How Can You Help?
Read the rest of this entry »

Drowning Prevention

March 1st, 2008

This is a good article for the spring when some of us are considering installing a pool for exercise or good family fun. When it comes to baby safety, Safety For Toddlers cannot stress enough the need for pool fencing. Check out our Resources section for several Treasure Valley dealers. I was especially impressed with Randy at Life Saver Pool Fence. In addition to his quality level of installation, the materials are outstandingly strong.

Do you have other installer recommendations?

Babies “R” Us Dream Nursery Design Workshop

February 21st, 2008

Join Safety For Toddlers and Babies “R” Us for an afternoon of ideas and advice on how to create the nursery of your dreams. You’ll get ideas on colors, furniture and safety products for your child’s nursery.

The Dream Nursery Design Workshop is scheduled for Sat., March 15, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., at Babies “R” Us in Meridian, ID.

Babies “R” Us
1200 N. Eagle Road
Meridian, ID 83642
Tel: (208) 884-0488
Google Maps

Idaho Earthquake Safety

February 21st, 2008

You may have felt the recent quake in Idaho. Read the article in the Idaho Statesman.

According to the Idaho Geological Survey, Idaho ranks fifth in the nation in terms of seismic danger. Based on the Uniform Building Code seismic zones, only California, Nevada, Utah and Alaska have a greater overall seismic hazard than Idaho.
Today’s quake is a reminder that tall bookshelves, dressers and entertainment systems can be dangerous to young children. Regardless of a quake, these items should be safety anchored. Safety For Toddlers carries a range of hard-, if not impossible-to-find brackets, wall anchors and furniture cables. They keep furniture standing during a quake or while an adventurous toddler starts climbing. Just remember, babyproofing isn’t a substitute for adult supervision.

For more information about family safety, download the USGS publication “Protecting Your Family From Earthquakes—The Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety.”

Pick up the Phone to Save a Child’s Life

February 7th, 2008

When installed properly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that child restraint systems reduce fatal injuries by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers in passenger cars and by nearly 60 percent for infants and toddlers in sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks and vans.

Unlike most states, Idaho has two exceptions in its vehicle code regarding child safety seats. A child is allowed to be unrestrained while the vehicle is in operation:

  1. If all vehicle seat belts are already in use (e.g. children can ride in the back of a pickup truck, unrestrained)
  2. To be removed to attend to his physical needs (e.g. nursing, changing diapers, etc.)

House Bill No. 462 is being reviewed by the House Transportation & Defense Committee, which proposes to remove these exceptions. The bill protects our children and sets strict guidelines requiring the use of child safety seats. But, opposition remains.

Pick up the Phone and Save a Child’s Life

Please contact members of the House Transportation & Defense Committee to voice your support for House Bill No. 462.

Read the rest of this entry »

Proper Car Seat Use Saves Lives

February 6th, 2008

Watch the video and read more here.

SafeKids USA Urges Parents to Childproof Homes

February 6th, 2008

Approximately 2,300 children in the United States, ages 14 and under, died from accidental injuries in the home in 2004, and 3.4 million kids are treated in emergency rooms for accidental injuries occurring at home. Most fatal injuries at home are caused by suffocation, fire and burns, drowning, choking, falls, poisoning or firearms discharged unintentionally. Read the article here.