JPMA urges parents to use bed rails safely

Many parents use a bed rail to help transition their child from a crib to an adult bed. The bed rail’s purpose is to prevent the toddler from accidentally rolling out of bed while sleeping. However, little ones can be seriously injured when bed rails are used improperly.

“Bed rails are NOT designed for infants. They’re designed to be a transitional device and should never be used in place of a crib,” said Robert B. Waller Jr., executive vice president of the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. “Before using a bed rail, parents should carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for age and weight recommendations. A good way to tell if your child is ready for a bed rail, is if he or she can get in and out of an adult bed unassisted.”

JPMA reminds parents to keep these important safety checks in mind when using a bed rail:

Always follow the manufacturers instructions for assembly and use.
Never use a bed rail in place of a crib. Bed rails are not designed for infant use.
Bed rails are designed for children who are able to get in and out of an adult bed unassisted.
Always use a bed rail with a standard innerspring mattress and box spring.
Never use a bed rail on a bunk bed, youth bed, water bed, crib, or bed without a box spring, unless it is specifically designed for that purpose.
Be sure to keep the bed rail firmly against the mattress when in use.

Author Notes:

Nathan Montery contributes and publishes news editorial to http://mattressreviews.us. Choose from a large variety of mattress types and get a good night’s sleep!