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When traveling with your baby, be sure to use an infant car seat that meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Look for a tag or label that says the seat meets these standards.
The middle of the back seat of the car is the safest place for your baby. The infant car seat must be in the back seat. The infant seat must face the rear of the car. It is not safe to use it in the front seat.
Check the bath water before bathing your baby. Test it with the inside of your wrist or with a thermometer. If possible, set the water heater in your home to 120 degrees.
Always check warmed formula to make sure it is not too hot.
Instruct caregivers carefully. Write things down for them. Make sure that everyone who takes care of your baby understands that you have specific expectations about how to treat and care for your baby.
Make sure that you and others put your baby to sleep on his back in a safe baby crib.
Things you should not do:
Never leave your baby alone on a bed, couch, table or chair.
Never leave your baby alone in a car.
Never put your baby in an infant car seat and then place the seat on a table or chair.
Never hold your baby while you are smoking, drinking something hot or cooking at a stove.
Don't allow anyone to smoke around your baby.
Never leave your baby alone in the bath.
Never hold your baby in your lap when you are riding in the car or driving.
Never shake or hit your baby.
Never leave your baby alone with a pet even if you know the animal well.
Month By Month has been adapted for Fathers from Healthy Start, Grow Smart, Your Newborn, Washington, D.C. 2002 - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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