• According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, placing an infant to sleep on the back has the lowest risk and is preferred, sleeping on the side is a reasonable alternative and is safer than placing your baby on their stomach to sleep.  Ask your pediatrician which method they recommend.
• This recommendation is for sleeping infants.  A certain amount of "tummy time" while the baby is awake and observed, is recommended.
• Do not place your infant to sleep on a soft surface or with pillows or stuffed toys propped around them.  These could block your baby's airway.

BATHING AND SKIN CARE

• A sponge bath usually cleanses adequately and is recommended for the first 3 to 4 weeks.  This allows for the navel and circumcision to heal.
• Mild baby soap should be used.
• A thin layer of baby lotion may be used after the bath.
• Good general rule for both bath water and air temperature is what is comfortable for you should be comfortable for baby.

• It is essential that you obtain an approved child-restraint car seat and use it every time your child rides in a motor vehicle.
• The local fire department will install your car seat securely in your car at no charge.  Just call the set up an appointment.
• A car seat that is more than 10 years old or that has been involved in a crash should not be used.
• Call 1-800-424-9393 to make sure your child safety seat has not been recalled.
• Never place your baby in front of an air bag device.
• Make sure you have your car seat with you at the hospital to transport the baby home.

CRIB SAFETY

• Make sure the slats are less than two inches apart and that the sides are 26 inches above the mattress.
• The side locks should be secure at all times.
• Do not use plastic sheeting or fluffy objects around the baby's face.
• Be sure there are no dangling strings, cords or anything to help the child climb out of the crib.

POISONING

All household cleaners, medicines, poisons and plants should be kept far out of your child's reach.

HOME MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO HAVE ON HAND:

• Band-aids
• Cotton balls
• Q-tips
• Gauze pads
• Rubbing alcohol
• Saline nasal drops
• Benadryl syrup
• Decongestant drops
• Cough and cold syrup
• Acetaminophen
• Children's Motrin
• Rehydration solution (Pedialyte)
• Anti-gas drops
• Diaper rash ointment
• Hydrocortisone cream 1%
• Triple antibiotic ointment
• Thermometer
• Medicine dropper
• Sunscreen
• Nail clippers
• Ipecac syrup

POISON CONTROL CENTER 1-800-722-5725