Strollers are a necessity for many parents because they are convenient and make transporting children easier. Although generally safe, strollers do carry their risks if they’re not used properly or are mishandled. There are a few things parents can do in order to reduce risk of injuries and ensure their child is as safe as possible.
Here are a few safety features to look for:
• Wide base- Strollers with wider bases are less likely to tip over.
• Brake practicality- In your search for strollers, find one that has easy-to-operate brakes. A special safety feature you should also look for are brakes that lock two wheels. Most importantly, make sure your child cannot reach the brake release lever.
• Single footrest- If it’s a side-by-side double stroller you’re searching for, choose one that has a single footrest extending across both of the sitting areas. Separate footrests increase the risk of your children’s small feet getting trapped between them.
Stroller safety tips that may prevent accidents:
• Remain close- Never leave your child unattended while they’re in their stroller.
• Toys- Sometimes parents hang toys from the stroller bumper bar to keep their child entertained. If you do this, make sure the toys are securely fastened.
• Buckle ‘em up- Just as you would do when riding in the car, always buckle up your child in the stroller when taking them for a ride. Children run the risk of falling out of the stroller and injuring themselves.
• Brake it- Whenever stopping the stroller, always engage the brakes.
• Store belongings properly- Avoid hanging bags or any item over the handle bar of the stroller. Doing so may cause the stroller to tip over. Instead, place items in the stroller’s basket.
• Folding caution- When opening and folding the stroller, keep your child away as their small fingers can get caught in the hinges. In addition, before putting your child in the stroller, make sure its locked open.
• Limit sun exposure- Avoid leaving the stroller in the sun for too long. Plastic and metal pieces may become very hot and can burn your baby. If the stroller has sat in the sun, check its surface temperature before placing your child in.
• Recalls- Do your research and make sure the particular model hasn’t been recalled. This holds especially true if you are purchasing a used stroller. If buying new, return the stroller’s warranty card so that you may be notified in the event that the stroller gets recalled.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
