Baby Safety

Buying a Crib and Mattress

According to the Canadian Paediatric Society, the safest place for a baby to sleep is in his or her own crib.

  • Choose a crib that meets the federal government regulations for cribs and cradles. Cribs built before 1986 do not meet these regulations and are not safe.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when you put the crib together.
  • Check that there is less than 6 cm (2 in.) of space between the vertical slats (bars) on the sides, head, and foot of the crib.
  • Use a crib mattress that is 15 cm (6 in.) thick or less, and fits the frame tightly. Only two fingers or less should fit between the crib and mattress to prevent your baby from getting stuck between the mattress and the bars.
  • The mattress should be firm. If the mattress is worn or has a tear, it is dangerous. Do not use it.
  • The mattress support should hold firmly and be checked often. You can do this by shaking the mattress support, thumping the mattress from the top, and pushing hard on the support from underneath. Make sure all screws, locks, and clamps are tight.
What do I need to know about bedding?
  • To protect the crib mattress, you can use either a quilted crib pad (one side waterproof) or a mattress cover, placed under the sheet.
  • Do not use plastic sheets as they can get in the way of breathing.
  • Use a fitted sheet over the crib mattress.
  • Do not use sheepskins, pillows, quilts, comforters, stuffed toys, or bumper pads in the crib. These things can stop good air circulation around your baby’s face.
  • A sleeper and a light blanket or a blanket‑weight sleeper should be enough to keep your baby comfortable.
  • Top sheets are not recommended until your child is an older toddler. Babies can get tangled in a top sheet.
  • Never cover your baby’s face or head with blankets.
Warning about Dropside Cribs

The crib’s dropside plastic hardware can break or deform. The dropside can also be installed upside‑down, which can result in broken plastic parts. All of these problems can cause the dropside to fall apart in one or more corners. If the dropside falls off, it creates space between the dropside and the crib mattress. Your baby can fall into the space and get trapped. Your baby could also fall out of the crib.

Follow the directions carefully so that you put the dropside on properly. Check your dropside plastic hardware regularly. Some manufacturers are providing kits that safely secure the dropside so it does not move.

For more information about safe sleep for your baby, click here.

Buying an Infant Car Seat

Use an infant/child car seat every time your child travels in a car. Car seats are required by law and must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS).

When buying a child car seat:
  • Look for the CMVSS label. Do not buy a child seat in the United States – it will not have this label.
  • Make sure you get the right type of child seat for your child’s age and weight. Your child should be in a rear facing seat until 12 months of age. To learn about the different types of car seats, click here.
  • Look for a child seat that is easy to use and fits in your vehicle.
  • Try it in your vehicle before buying it. Be sure it is easy to use so you will use it correctly every time.
  • Look for a child seat with at least two sets of shoulder harness strap slots to allow room for growth. Make sure they are easy to adjust.

It is recommended that you do not buy a second‑hand child seat. If you do, the child seat should be inspected and checked for any possible recalls. Make sure a second‑hand child seat meets CMVSS standards. Do not use a child seat that has been in a crash or has passed the expiration date stamped on the seat. If no expiration date is present, check with the child seat manufacturer. For more information, call Transport Canada at 1‑800‑333‑0371.

You can also get more information about car seats from the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation. They offer “New Parent Car Seat Workshops.” A workshop will help you correctly install your child’s seat and show you how to use it properly. For more information call BCAA’s Child Car Seat Information Line at 1‑877‑247‑5551 or visit the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation website.