Tips To Keep Baby Safe At Home (NAPSA)—Safety quickly be- comes a top priority when you bring a new baby home from the hospital, and for good reason. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, more than 2 million children ages 4 and under are treated in hospital emergency rooms every year for injuries that occur inside the home. It is important to learn about the products that play a key role in keeping baby protected. “By taking the necessary precau- tions to keep babies as safe as possible while they explore their surroundings, parents can better foster their children’s natural curiosity,” says Dr. Laura Jana, pediatrician and memberof the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Section on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention. “The fact that there are new models of gates and monitors that offer innovative features to accommodate just about every household need makes it much easier for today’s parents to choose reliable products when babyproofing their home.” When looking to purchase a safety gate, Dr. Jana recommends choosing one that is sturdy, designed to fit securely in various household spaces, and suits a family’s particular needs. Here are some practical tips to help you decide amongthe variety of gates available: Consider a metal pressuremount gate that does not require tools—a feature that makes for easier installation. For added safety, choose a gate with an indicator light that shows if the gate is properly locked and a motion sensor that illuminates the gate in the dark. e For ultimate convenience, pick an electronic gate with a wall console or remote control for hands- A sturdy gate helps keep baby safe at home. free use that also swings in both directions for easy walk-through. Not only can a sturdy and wellsecured gate help parents keep their babies protected, but Dr. Jana also stresses the convenience of having a reliable and clear connection to baby at all times. Newer models of nursery monitors, like the WhisperConnect from Evenflo, include two-way communication, unit-finder alert, and var- ious soundlights that clearly monitor baby. Busy parents who need freedom of movement should look for a monitor that includes a belt clip and an extended range of up to 650 feet. An economical option is a monitor that runs on rechargeable batteries, but make sure it is also equipped with a low-battery indicator. Dr. Jana says visiting company Web sites is often an easy way to find practical products that are best suited for each family’s individual needs. On Evenflo’s Web site, www.evenflo.com, parents can scan through the variety of gates and nursery monitors to conveniently customize their home safety systems. Note to Editors: Although this copy may be used at any time, September is Baby Safety Month.
