Boat Safety for a Baby
A ride out on the lake in a boat can be fun and relaxing. If you want to take your baby along, there are a few safety tips you should follow.
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Readiness
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Your baby needs to be developmentally ready for a boat trip. The U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety recommends that your baby be at least 18 pounds and fit in a personal flotation device. According to Babycenter, most babies will reach 18 pounds between 4 and 11 months old. It is also best if she is able to sit up.
Safety Gear
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Your baby must wear a flotation device at all times when on a boat. Make sure the device fits your baby snugly. To test this, lift your baby up by the vest's shoulders. If your baby's head slips through, the vest is too big. There are also safety vests that prevent a baby's head from going underwater.
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Sun Protection
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Your baby should wear sunscreen while out on a boat and a brimmed hat to protect him from the sun. Sunglasses are also good to keep the bright sun from hurting your baby's eyes.
Other Considerations
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Don't strap your baby into a carseat, bouncy seat, or any other device that does not float. Your baby should spend her time on a boat on someone's lap, and all adults should be wearing safety vests as well. Babies and young children must be constantly supervised while on a boat. Only go boating with a baby when the forecast calls for calm weather. Always have a first aid kit on board and learn CPR in case of accidents.
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References
- Photo Credit boat image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com
