Summer is a wonderful time to be outside in New Zealand. Picnics on the beach, BBQs at home and swimming in the river are traditional Kiwi pastimes loved for generations. Over the years many of us have become aware of the danger our summer sun and consequently slip, slop, slap and wrap by the Cancer Society of NZ. But do you know about the other summer dangers for babies that you need to be aware of?
Watch Out For These Summer Dangers For Babies
- Paddling Pool
While it is compulsory for all swimming pools to be securely fenced, plenty of us forget about this when setting up our paddling pools. If your paddling pool has water in it, it needs to have an adult right next to it! So many young children drown because of unattended water. Babies can drown in less than two inches of water and all it takes is one moment of inattention. Please keep your baby within arms reach near all water.
- High Temperatures
During summer temperatures can rise into the high 20’s and early 30’s for many places within New Zealand. Babies can suffer from heat stroke during summer, so limit their exposure to the sun and keep them in the shade.
- Open Windows
Babies can be very fast sometimes! With our windows most likely to be open to cool our homes down, we have unintentionally created a summer danger for babies. Open doors and ranch sliders are potentially dangerous. Screened doors and windows are not childproof, so you will need to install child safe guards and locks to keep your baby safe. This also includes windows and doors near tables, sofas and beds which your baby could use to climb on to get access.
- Gardens
A garden is a magical place for babies to explore with an adult. While eating the odd bit of grass and dirt is unlikely to cause harm to your baby, there are many plants which are poisonous. If you can, identify and remove all the toxic plants from your garden or fence them off so your baby cannot get near them. Weed spray, fertiliser and other garden sprays are also poisonous, so avoid taking your baby into the garden for at least 48 hours if they have been applied. Most importantly of all, babies need to be supervised at all times when they are outside enjoying themselves.
Sleeping during the summer months can also be challenging for young babies. As Wellington’s Best Baby Sleep Consultants we would love to share with you some of our tips on making sleep more comfortable during summer for your little one. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you his summer!