Stroller Safety: Keeping Baby Secure

Strollers are essential for getting around with babies and toddlers, but they also present safety risks if used incorrectly. Each year, thousands of children are injured in stroller-related accidents. Understanding proper stroller selection, use, and maintenance can prevent most of these injuries.

Choosing a Safe Stroller CPSC

Not all strollers are created equal. Look for safety features and proper certification.

Essential safety features:

• 5-point harness (restrains shoulders, waist, and between legs)
• Reliable brakes that are easy to engage
• Wide, stable base
• Locking mechanisms that work properly
• No sharp edges or pinch points
• Sun canopy

JPMA certification:

• Look for JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification
• Indicates stroller meets voluntary safety standards
• Check CPSC.gov for recalls before purchasing
• Register your stroller to receive recall notices

Types of strollers:

• Full-size: Most stable, most features
• Umbrella: Lightweight but less stable
• Jogging: Designed for running, fixed front wheel
• Double/tandem: For two children
• Travel systems: Work with infant car seat

Weight and Age Requirements AAP

Newborns:

• Need fully reclining seat or car seat adapter
• Cannot support their heads
• Travel systems allow using car seat in stroller
• Some strollers have bassinet attachments

When baby can use regular stroller seat:

• When they have head control (around 4-6 months)
• Can sit with support
• Check stroller's minimum age/weight requirements

Weight limits:

• Each stroller has maximum weight capacity
• Check limit for each seat
• Don't exceed—affects stability
• Remember to account for items in storage too

Proper Use Every Time Safe Kids

Harness use:

• Always use the harness—every time
• Fasten all straps (shoulder, waist, crotch)
• Adjust to fit snugly
• Check that buckles are secure

Brake engagement:

• Always engage brakes when stopped
• Even on flat ground
• Especially on slopes
• Don't rely on harness alone to hold child

Handle safety:

• Keep hands on handle when child is in stroller
• Never hang bags on handles (can tip stroller)
• Use under-seat storage instead
• Wrist straps can prevent runaway strollers

Common Stroller Hazards CPSC

Tip-overs:

• Most common stroller injury
• Often caused by bags on handles
• Toddlers climbing can cause tip-overs
• Overloading affects stability

Falls:

• Children falling from stroller
• Usually due to not using harness
• Can happen quickly, even in a moment

Finger entrapment:

• Fingers caught in folding mechanisms
• Hinges and joints can pinch
• Keep children away when folding/unfolding
• Check for pinch point guards

Runaway strollers:

• Stroller rolling away on slopes
• Always use brakes when stopped
• Consider wrist strap
• Be careful near streets and drops

Preventing Tip-Overs

Don't hang bags on handles:

• This is the leading cause of tip-overs
• Changes center of gravity
• Even small bags can cause problems
• Use under-seat storage or a stroller organizer designed for the model

Keep children seated:

• Don't let toddlers stand in stroller
• Don't let older children climb on or hang on stroller
• Seat only one child per seat

Fold/unfold carefully:

• Make sure locks engage fully
• Follow manufacturer instructions
• Never let child in stroller that's not fully locked open

Safe Stroller Practices AAP

In parking lots:

• Stay alert for cars
• Don't roll stroller behind parked cars
• Be visible
• Keep distance from moving vehicles

Near stairs and escalators:

• Never take stroller on escalators
• Use elevators instead
• Be careful at top of stairs
• Engage brakes on inclines

On sidewalks and paths:

• Walk facing traffic if on road edge
• Stay aware of cyclists and runners
• Don't block walkways
• Be courteous to other pedestrians

In stores and crowds:

• Be aware of stroller's width
• Watch for glass and sharp displays
• Don't leave stroller unattended
• Keep it close in crowds

Weather Safety

Heat safety:

• Never leave child in stroller in sun
• Don't cover stroller with blanket (traps heat)
• Check seat temperature before placing child
• Keep child hydrated

Cold weather:

• Bundle child appropriately
• Don't add bulky items that affect harness fit
• Use stroller-specific warmth accessories
• Check frequently that child is comfortable

Rain:

• Use rain covers designed for your stroller
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Don't use plastic bags as covers
• Dry stroller after use to prevent mold

Jogging Stroller Safety Safe Kids

Jogging strollers have special considerations.

When to use:

• Not until baby is at least 6-8 months old
• Check manufacturer's minimum age
• Baby needs good head and neck control
• Some experts recommend waiting until 12 months for running

Safety features needed:

• Fixed or lockable front wheel
• Hand brake for control
• 5-point harness
• Wrist strap

Jogging safely:

• Start slowly
• Avoid uneven terrain
• Use wrist strap always
• Keep hands on handlebar
• Be aware of surroundings

Maintaining Your Stroller

Regular checks:

• Inspect brakes regularly
• Check that harness is intact and buckles work
• Look for loose screws or parts
• Ensure wheels are secure
• Verify folding mechanism works properly

Cleaning:

• Clean fabric regularly
• Check for mold, especially under seat
• Wipe down frame
• Lubricate wheels if squeaky

Repairs:

• Fix problems immediately
• Don't use damaged strollers
• Contact manufacturer for replacement parts
• Don't improvise fixes that affect safety

Recalls and Registration

Check for recalls:

• Visit CPSC.gov regularly
• Search for your stroller model
• Follow recall instructions completely
• Don't use recalled strollers until repaired

Register your stroller:

• Fill out registration card
• Or register online
• Ensures you receive recall notices
• Keep receipt and documentation

Double Stroller Considerations

Types:

• Side-by-side: Equal access, can be wide
• Tandem (front-back): Narrower, seats may be unequal
• Sit-and-stand: For older child to stand or sit

Safety specifics:

• Check weight limits for each seat
• Don't exceed total capacity
• Be aware of width in doorways
• Balance weight distribution

The Bottom Line

Stroller safety means choosing a certified stroller with proper features, using the harness every time, engaging brakes when stopped, and avoiding hanging bags on the handle. Check your stroller regularly for wear and damage, and stay aware of recalls. With proper use, strollers are a safe and convenient way to get around with your baby.

Clara is here to help you use your stroller safely!