Baby Safety Month
September 2010
September is Baby Safety Month, sponsored annually by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). This year, JPMA is helping educate parents and caregivers on the importance of creating a safe sleep environment.
Each year hundreds of deaths occur when children are placed in a sleep environment that is not specifically designed for children. The safest place for a baby and child is in a fully functional, properly assembled crib, cradle, bassinet, portable play yard, or toddler bed.
All new cribs on the market today must meet minimum government requirements. In addition, there are consensus performance standards, which are established by ASTM International with involvement of the government and recognized experts, to which JPMA certifies cribs, cradles/bassinets, portable play yards, toddler beds, bed rails and other durable infant products.
Recent recalls of juvenile products highlight the importance of proper assembly and use of cribs. Cribs are intended to last for years (or multiple births) when properly cared for. So, with some careful planning, naptime and nighttime can be a pleasant and safe experience for both you and your baby.
There is an abundance of material available today for parents and caregivers looking for safety information regarding juvenile products. This year’s Baby Safety Month campaign and the information contained on this Web site provide insight into safe sleep practices.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to read through the safety tips, and a special section just for retailers provides ideas and helpful hints for promoting Baby Safety Month in-store. We invite you to celebrate Baby Safety Month 2010 and make every night a good night.
In an effort to educate parents on creating a safe sleep environment, JPMA has developed a comprehensive safe sleep campaign. Together, with related industry partners, JPMA is committed to educating parents and caregivers nationwide on the best safe sleep practices to make every night with baby a good night. For more information on this initiative, visit www.cribsafety.org.