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Cleaning the Yard:
Keep any area that your baby might be in free of all yard debris. Be sure to put away, and safely store gardening tools and hazardous chemicals, such as fertilizer.
Be cautious about what plants you have in your yard. Some of your most beautiful plantings may be poisonous to your baby, as can wild mushrooms that pop-up after a rain.
If you have paint chips falling from your house, take steps to ensure that your baby cannot eat them. They may contain lead or other harmful substances.
Babyproofing the Pool:
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, drowning is the fourth leading cause of death to children under five.
All pools should be surrounded by a fence or other safety barrier, not only to keep your baby from accidentally falling in, but also to keep other children from the same hazard.
When you allow the baby in the pool area, never leave him unattended - even for a second. Babies can drown in the just a few inches of water. Additionally, there have been incidents where babies have fallen into pools and been sucked into the water filter. The suction can be so powerful that attempts to free the baby, in time to prevent drowning, may fail.
Although not exactly babyproofing a pool, you should never allow your baby near a pool if you, yourself, cannot swim. If the baby should fall in, you must be able to get him out! In addition, every parent and caregiver should know how to perform infant CPR, so that they can respond to such an emergency.
Keeping the Baby from Wandering Off:
At home, make sure that you have a securely fenced area in which to let the baby play. Keep this area free of pets so that the area does not become soiled. Granted you cannot sterilize the area, but do try to remove anything that they baby might put in its mouth – because if they can, they will - dog feces.
Away from home, be sure to keep a firm grasp on your baby at all times. If you cannot confine your baby to a stroller or portable playpen, consider putting the baby into a harness/leash setup. It may not look nice, you may feel foolish, and some people may criticize you, but it will prevent your baby from wandering off.
Animals and Bugs:
The best way to keep your baby safe from animals, wild or domestic, is to keep the baby close to you at all times. That way any animals that might approach him cannot get to the baby without going through you first.
Do not put bug spray on your baby without your doctor's ok. Bug sprays are pesticides and may cause damage to your baby's lungs, skin, and, or eyes.
Danger from Strangers
Unfortunately, one of the dangers which faces a baby outdoors is the threat of abduction from a stranger, or even possibly someone you know.
Never leave your baby outside alone – this will help protect your baby from natural dangers, as well as human ones.
Always consult your doctor for medical advice.
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