SAFETY SQUAD BLOG

Why do they sell bumper pads if I’m not supposed to use them?

The simple answer….because we keep buying them. Believe it or not, there is very little legislation that addresses the type of products that can be sold and advertised as “baby products”.  Welcome to the overwhelming world of baby gear – there a lot of products that you will not need.  Some of them helpful, others that are innocuous, some that can be harmful.

Bumper pads no longer have a function in today’s contemporary world of “safety approved” cribs.  Bumper pads were used to prevent baby from escaping through the crib bars, or entrapping a body part between the rails. All newly manufactured cribs have to have corner posts, slats, spindles, or rails that are not more than 2 3/8 inches apart. (Download Federal crib regulations 2001 ) This concept of preventing “escape” or “entrapment” is no longer an issue.
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Child Passenger Safety Techs: Who's the Best?

All National Certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technicians complete the same basic 32-hour course. Their certification is valid for two years. Each CPS Tech is required to earn continuing education credits, conduct installation training and complete a refresher course to maintain certification.

Here are some questions you should ask a potential CPS Tech:

• Does he/she have a NHTSA/Safe Kids CPS Technician Number and Card?
• How often does the technician receive updates or continuing education?
• Does the technician have an up-to-date recall list?
• Who can the technician call for advice if problems or questions arise during the installation?
• Does he/she use a waiver/checklist during the installation?
• Is he/she insured as a CPS Technician?
   Does he/she utilize the 2007/09 LATCH Manual?

The more positive answers the better. In the best case, they can answer all questions to your satisfaction. The car seat industry changes daily. If your technician takes liability and continuing education seriously, then the instruction you receive will be accurate. You should leave a CPS Tech feeling empowered and educated, if not go someplace else. Sometimes you get what you pay for.