How to be Prepared for Any Baby Emergency

One of the greatest joys many new parents enjoy is watching their new baby explore the world around them with fresh eyes. The possibilities for adventure and excitement abound. The same unpredictability that makes babies laugh when they look in a mirror, smile at the balloon floating by, or giggle at funny noises, makes them susceptible to accidents. As a new parent, it is vital to be prepared for any baby emergency, big or small, to keep little ones safe, happy, and exploring.

Plan Ahead

The saying "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," is most definitely true when dealing with babies. The best way to prepare for a baby emergency is to prevent one from happening in the first place. Baby proof your house and check out anywhere your baby will be spending a lot of time, such as grandparent's houses and babysitters. The baby proofing list changes as the baby's developmental stages change, but a good place to start is covering outlets, using baby gates to block off stairs, and installing safety latches on cupboards with cleaning products, medicine, sharp objects, or anything you don't want strewn all over. Make sure heavy furniture, such as tv stands and bookshelves, are secured to the wall and there are no tiny choke hazards on the floor. Planning ahead will certainly not prevent all emergencies, but it is a good place to start.

Take a First Aid Class

First aid classes are an excellent idea, especially for first time parents. Most hospitals and many local recreation centers offer basic CPR and first aid classes. Knowing what to do while you wait for emergency response to arrive may literally be the difference between life and death for your child. In addition to basic life saving skills, some classes will also teach caregivers how to stop bleeding or immobilize a suspected broken bone.

Enlist a Support Network

Parenting is hard work, and sometimes the best laid plans to awry. Don't be embarrassed to enlist a support network to help you stay safe and sane. Think about family, neighbors, and friends that are close enough to help you out in case of emergency. Perhaps, it's the neighbor with the spare key to your house, the grandparent that picks up the big sibling from school when the baby has an ear infection, or the best friend that brings you a meal when you feel like you haven't slept in a week.

Pack a Bag

Shoulder strap and backpack diaper bags are essential when away from home. Besides the obvious change of clothes, diapers, and wipes, a few additions can make your diaper bag a real lifesaver. Include some basic first aid supplies in your diaper bag like band-aids, tissues, and antibiotic ointment. It is also a good idea to pack a travel sized bottle of fever reducer and allergy medication, just in case. In addition to feeding supplies, packing a small bottle of water is an excellent idea. Think seasonally as you pack as well. If cold outside, remember extra socks, mittens, and fleece fabric blankets. If sunny, a hat and sunscreen are essential. When shopping for a diaper bag, make sure to choose one that is roomy and will suit your needs. A leather backpack makes a great diaper bag that is durable and willingly carried by anyone that currently has the baby.

Be Organized

The last thing you want to be doing during an emergency is searching for a phone number or trying to locate your baby's birth certificate. Organization is key. Even in the age of cell phones and technology, it is very important to have a list of important phone numbers written down. Include your emergency network family, friends, and neighbors, as well as pediatrician, dentist, and poison control. Keep a list of these numbers somewhere obvious at home, such as on your fridge. It is also a good idea to put a list in your car and in the diaper bag. It is also wise to keep a file folder somewhere safe with all important documents in it.

Once you have done what you can to prepare, try to relax. Enjoy parenthood and all the bumps and bruises it brings with it. Just make sure you are carrying band-aids!