TRAVELLING TIPS
SAFETY
Never hold a baby in arms when riding in a motor vehicle. In this
position the baby could be thrown against the dashboard, windscreen
or other occupant and suffer serious injury or death.
When riding in a motor vehicle never nurse a baby and use the same
seat belt for both of you. In this position the baby or child could be
crushed.
Children must be secured in appropriate restraints at all times when
the car is in motion. Children travelling unrestrained and standing up
in the car are in danger of serious injury or death. Traffic regulations
in all states require children to be secured in child restraints or adult
seat belts where available.
Plan your trip with frequent comfort stops to reduce stress on babies,
young children and driver. Keep the car well ventilated to reduce heat
stress. Two car windows should be kept open to maintain a good flow
of fresh air if air conditioning is not used.
Never leave babies or toddlers in a stationary car in the sun because
of the risk of heat exhaustion.
Ensure babies and toddlers are adequately shaded from direct
sunlight through side or rear windows.
Be on guard against carbon monoxide poisoning which can occur
through only a slight leak in the exhaust system while travelling in a
closed car.
Securely stow all heavy objects, feeding bottles, etc. that could
become missiles during an accident and cause injury to any
occupant.
TRAVELLING TIPS
CLOTHING/BATHING
Take several changes of clothing and bibs for possible car sickness.
Disposable nappies and liners are very handy while travelling. Since
it is often warmer in the car, dress the baby in light clothing. When
cooler, it is easier to place a blanket over the baby than it is to remove
the baby from the restraint and change clothes.
Take a pack containing baby soap, oil, powder, cotton wool, small
towel and wet washer in a plastic bag.
FEEDING
Never breast feed a baby while car is in motion.
Babies will require
extra feeding if travelling in the heat. For bottle fed babies, make up
the bottles and refrigerate before leaving home for a day trip. Place in
a cool bag and reheat as needed with hot water from a thermos.
Alternatively, bring boiled water in a thermos and pre-measured
amounts of baby formula in small containers. Use the water from the
thermos to mix with the formula when required. Regardless which
method is used, it is always a good plan to carry some boiled water
in a sterile container or bottle.
Do not attempt to carry warm milk because germs multiply rapidly in
warm milk.
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