Make cribs safe for infants by immobilizing the drop-side with a free kit from the manufacturer.
Many drop-side cribs have been recalled, because they pose a safety hazard to babies. These cribs are supposed to make it easier for parents to lift their children in and out, but some of the mechanisms that allow the rail to move up and down malfunction -- and create a gap that the infant can become trapped in. To make cribs safe for use, parents and caregivers must stop the drop-side from moving. It is important not to use a homemade immobilization device. Manufacturers have developed crib immobilization kits that are easy to install.
Instructions
1. Move the drop-side up -- and look at it while it is in the up position -- to confirm that it doesn't move freely once locked. Look at the crib while the drop-side is in the down position -- to see that it is doesn't move freely once locked.
Do not use the crib if the drop-side does not lock properly in the up and down positions.
2. Observe each of the four corners on the drop, to make sure that they are not broken. Look at the drop-side of the crib to determine whether there is any damaged plastic hardware. Look at the crib to check for loose or stripped screws.
Do not use the crib if the plastic parts or the screws securing these parts are broken.
3. Look at the crib to identify the manufacturer. Keep in mind that many cribs are sold under various trade names, but may be manufactured by the same company. Go to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website to find out if the crib has been recalled. Write down the contact telephone number for the crib's manufacturer if the crib has been recalled.
Do not use the crib if it has been recalled.
Call the manufacturer to order replacement parts as needed.
4. Place one hand on the top of the rail and pull it up into the locked position.
5. Hold one of the plastic immobilizing clips from the manufacturer in one hand. Read the clip to determine whether it is labeled for the left or right side. Gently slide the plastic clip on the side of the crib it is labeled for. Attach the clip onto the crib according to the manufacturer's specific instructions. Install most clips by placing the clip on the lower horizontal rail flush against the vertical corner post. The properly placed clip will prevent the rail from dropping down.
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