Traveling with Toddlers: How to Baby-Proof Your Hotel Room

Now that summer travel season has started we have received a number of questions from new moms who are traveling with their infant or toddler for the first time. When you arrive at your destination whether it be a hotel, time share, condo or grandma's you need to immediately asses your new environment for any potential dangers and baby-proof your new environment.

Remember to inspect the rooms for any hanging or loose cords. Cords to blinds need to be taped up high where they do not pose a strangulation risk. Loose electrical cords can be zip tied together or the items can be unplugged and tucked away in a drawer. All electrical outlets that are exposed to your toddler need to either be taped off with masking tape or have plastic plugs put in. If your condo or hotel has glass tables you can tape the rubber corner guards on each corner. If your child is an escape artist you will want to bolt lock the door and use the baby proofing plastic door knobs.

If your child is a climber see what they can use as their "ladder,” in other words any trash can or chair that is near a screened and opened window or balcony needs to be moved. It is best not open any windows as screens will not keep your baby from falling out of the window. If you have a balcony or deck we highly recommend that parents carefully inspect that your child can't fit between the spindles and that all spindles are secure and not loose. A child should NEVER be left unattended on any deck or balcony.

If you happen to have stairs at your final destination we recommend a baby gate which can be purchased in most locations at a nearby store (call ahead to find out). Lastly inspect your child's crib or pack n play make sure it is safe and clean.

Here are a few additional tips for baby-proofing your hotel room:

• Find the nearest fire exits, fire alarm, fire extinguisher/hose to your room
• Keep potentially hazardous items, such as toiletries, out of kids’ reach.
• Some hotels also offer free childproofing kits or will childproof the room for you upon request. Just make sure to ask.

Remember as the parents it's your responsibility to watch your children while on vacation. Please never leave your child unattended.