Stroller and cart safety for babies and young children
Taking your child out of the house allows him or her to have new experiences and interactions. You may start using a stroller as soon as your baby is born and continue to do so well into early childhood. You may also have your child ride in a shopping cart when you visit stores. Make sure these structures are well maintained, and take some general precautions to avoid injuring your child:1
Strollers
- Never leave your child unattended in a stroller.
- Securely fasten any toys or bumpers you use with your stroller so they don't fall on your child. Remove these items as soon as your child can sit or get up on all fours.
- Make sure releases and hinges are out of reach of your child, especially if the stroller is collapsible. Always lock the release mechanism before putting your child in the stroller. Keep your child at a safe distance when you are collapsing the stroller.
- Strap your child in securely so he or she cannot lean out.
- Use a stroller with easy-to-operate brakes. The stroller should also have a wide base so it won't easily tip over.
- Prevent the stroller from tipping over. Don't hang items, such as shopping bags, from the stroller handles. Carrying baskets should be placed low, near the rear wheels.
- Twin strollers should have a single, long footrest that extends across both seats. Separate foot rests can trap feet.
Shopping carts
Most injuries from shopping carts involve children younger than 5 years. Fractures, internal injuries, and concussions are the most common injuries. Carriers designed to sit on top of the cart or built into it do not prevent a child from falling out. Avoid accidents by properly restraining your child at all times in a cart, and do not leave your child unattended, even for a moment.
| Author: | Douglas Dana Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: May 10, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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