Safety Considerations for Carrying a Child in a Sling or Baby Carrier

The T.I.C.K.S Rule for Safe Babywearing was devised by the UK Sling Manufacturers & Retailers Consortium.  Always ensure you follow these points when securing your baby or toddler in a carrier, and continue to be aware of them as you go about your day.  In addition, there are many common-sense points listed below that will help ensure safe, happy and healthy babywearing – click on the ‘+’ signs to expand and read each section (please note this list is not exhaustive).

  • Tight
  • In View
  • Close Enough to Kiss
  • Keep Chin Off the Chest
  • Supported Back

 

T.I.C.K.S Rule for Safe Babywearing

TICKS copy

  • Ensure you are using a carrier that is suitable for the size and weight of your child
  • Ensure you follow the manufacturers instructions for use.  There are so many different ways to carry your child, and unofficial instructions for doing so all over the internet, all posted with the best of good intentions – however not all carries are suitable for all carriers so do not attempt a carry that it is not designed for
  • Check the integrity of your carrier before use – are there any tears, loose threads or holes that may make the carrier unsafe?

  • …Of your clothing – scarves, hoods, collars, big coats and jumpers can be bulky and should be kept away your child’s face
  • …Of your child’s clothing – too many layers in addition to your combined body heat can overheat a young child, stay away from bulky snowsuits and thick coats – however do not let exposed arms, legs and feet get too cold
  • …Of the elements – protect your child from sun exposure, wind, rain and snow etc.
  • …Of loose items that your child could choke on, or that could cover their face
  • …Of long straps – tie any trailing straps and wrap tails securely around you so they don’t become a trip hazard
  • …Of what your child can reach – children can grab at objects behind your back, and pull and kick at things within reach
  • …Of hot beverages and food – tempting as it is to eat and drink normally when a carrier enables you to be hands-free, do take care of drinks and food that may burn or scald if accidentally spilled

  • Check your reflection in shop windows or parked cars, ask a friend or use a babywearing mirror to ensure the T.I.C.K.S and other safety guidelines are still being followed, and adjust carrier if necessary

  • A simple rule of thumb is to not do things while carrying your baby in a sling that you wouldn’t have done whilst pregnant – for example, don’t run, jog, jump, ride a bike or ride a horse
  • Don’t expose your baby to unnecessary dangers, for example, flying debris while mowing the lawn, fumes from some household cleaners, activities that normally require eye or ear protection or other protective clothing
  • Be cautious around water – while it’s lovely to use a water wrap and wade in the water when it’s hot, be aware of the risk of slipping over and immersing a child who is attached to you.  On a small boat, a personal flotation device should be used rather than securing a child to you with a sling in case you fall in
  • Be cautious while cooking – the hob, oven and barbeques can all cause burns to a child who is too close; be aware of what they could reach, and where feet and trailing sling straps and tails are at all times.  If you have to prepare food while carrying your baby, a back carry is safest, but still be mindful of where little hands and feet can reach.

  • Do not be tempted to get in the car with a child secured to you in a sling; this is not safe and is illegal