Safety Tips for Prams and Strollers in South Africa

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When choosing a prams or strollers, ensure it meets South African safety standards. Look for a sturdy frame, secure footrests, and a 5-point harness. Always use the harness to prevent falls and avoid overloading the stroller to maintain stability. Place bags in the basket beneath and avoid hanging them on the handles. For added safety, engage brakes whenever stationary and use a wrist tether strap. Keep an eye on children, especially when they fall asleep, to prevent accidents.

When purchasing a pram or stroller in South Africa, safety and practicality should be your top priorities. Here’s a comprehensive guide tailored for Factory Deals Online customers:

Choosing the Right Prams or Strollers

1. Safety Standards: Always ensure that the pram or stroller meets recognized safety standards.

2. Essential Safety Features:

• Stable Frame: The frame should be solid, stable, and lock securely when folded.
• No Gaps: Check for gaps where your child’s head, arms, or fingers could get trapped.
• 5-Point Harness: A harness that secures your child at the waist, shoulders, and between the legs is a must.
• Parking Brakes: Ensure that the pram has one or more secure parking brakes, with red levers for easy identification.
• Wrist Tether Strap: A tether strap is essential to prevent the pram from rolling away, especially on uneven surfaces.
• Age and Weight Suitability: Make sure the pram or stroller is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Upright strollers should not be used for infants under six months.

3. User-Friendly Features: Consider the weight and maneuverability of the pram. It should be easy to push and convenient for daily use. Look for features like adjustable handles, easy folding mechanisms, and sufficient storage.

Safe Use of Prams and Strollers

1. Setting Up Properly: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up your pram or stroller. Ensure that folding mechanisms are securely locked to prevent accidental collapse.

2. Preventing Falls:

• Always use the 5-point harness to strap in your child before moving.
• Teach older children not to stand or lean out of the pram.

3. Avoiding Tipping:

• Store bags in the basket underneath rather than hanging them on the handles.
• Do not exceed the pram’s weight limit as this can cause instability.
• Keep older siblings from climbing onto the pram, as this could cause it to tip over.

4. Reducing Strangulation and Suffocation Risks:

• Always secure the harness buckle even when your child is not in the pram.
• Avoid placing pillows or blankets inside, as they pose suffocation risks.

If your child falls asleep in the pram, either monitor them closely or transfer them to a cot. Never leave them unattended, as they could shift and cause the pram to tip, leading to potential injury.

Safe Navigation with Prams

1. Using the Wrist Tether Strap: Always attach the wrist tether strap when pushing the pram to prevent it from rolling away, especially on slopes.

2. Avoid Rough Terrain: Steer clear of rough ground, curbs, and stairs to avoid damaging the pram and risking injury to your child.

3. Engaging Brakes: Whenever you stop, even on flat surfaces, engage the pram’s brakes to prevent it from rolling.

4. Safe Parking: Park the pram parallel to roads or tracks to prevent it from rolling into danger.

5. Lifting Assistance: When boarding buses or trains, ask for assistance. Ensure one person holds the pram’s foot while you manage the handles, especially when disembarking.

Pram-Related Injuries and How to Avoid Them

Despite taking precautions, injuries related to prams and strollers can occur. Common causes include tipping over, falls due to improper restraint, and runaway prams. These incidents can result in bumps, bruises, or more severe injuries like trapped fingers or limbs. In extreme cases, suffocation or death can occur if a child becomes trapped in the pram or if it rolls away uncontrollably.

To minimize these risks, always prioritize safety features when choosing a pram, adhere to weight limits, and supervise your child closely, particularly when they are in the pram.

By following these guidelines, South African parents can ensure their child’s safety and comfort while using prams and strollers, making outings stress-free and enjoyable.

Read more on babyhouse.co.za

For more tips and detailed guidelines on pram safety, visit Factory Deals Online’s blog.