How to Take a Stroller on an Escalator

When you're pushing a stroller around the mall, an escalator can seem like a lifesaver if there isn't a convenient elevator nearby. Follow safety strategies when riding the moving staircase, however, to protect you and your toddler from accidents and injury.

Instructions

1. Remove your baby or toddler from the stroller and let a friend or family member hold her while going up or down the escalator.

2. Fold the stroller up completely, ensuring that no stroller toys, packages, accessories or your purse handles are sticking out the sides where they can easily become tangled in the escalator grate.

3. Step onto the escalator and sit the stroller wheels on the step beside you or in front of you if the escalator is narrow. Balancing it on the step behind you will keep you from facing forward as you ride the escalator, which will divert your attention when it comes time to step off.

4. Leave several steps between you and the riders in front of you and advise riders behind you to do the same. The extra steps will give you enough time to maneuver the stroller off the escalator without worrying about causing a dangerous backup.

5. Check your clothing before you get onto the escalator to ensure you don't have any dangling garments or accessories (like a long sweater, scarf, anklet or pant hem) that can snag on the escalator grate while you're preoccupied with the stroller.

6. Walk the extra steps to reach the elevator or resign yourself to staying on the same floor if the elevator is out of service when you're alone with your baby and stroller. You can also find a mall or building security guard (rather than relying on strangers) to help you hold the stroller while you carry your baby on the escalator.