Emergency Items We Should Have In Our Nurseries

By Carole 6 months ago

1. Formula/Breast Milk - baby demands it....

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For babies who are feeding on formula, stock a sufficient supply of the powder together with sterilized bottles and nipples.  For breastfeeding, store expressed milk in sterile containers such as breast milk storage bags.  Be sure to keep a manual or a battery operated pump in the nursery.

2. Water - hydration keeps us alive ....

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Let's face it, even without food, water can keep us alive.  Keep a supply of stored water in baby's nursery, kept in a cool, dry place.  Use either water storage containers or gallon jugs, as long as they are suitable for a 6 month period, at which time they should be replaced to maintain their freshness

3. Baby Food - when your little cherub wants food, they want it NOW....

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When you are purchasing your regular weekly supply of baby food jars or pouches, buy an extra few, with long shelf lives.  These can include rice cereal or pureed fruit.  For toddlers, keep some snacks such as yogurt melts and puffs, all very useful in an emergency.

4. Baby Medications - to ease the pain....

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When making up an emergency medication kit, remember to include all baby's prescription medications along with the appropriate dosage.  It's a good idea to have infant acetaminophen and infant ibuprofen in the pack, provided they are recommended by the paediatrician.

5. Diapers - even in an emergency, baby needs regular changes....

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You should plan for at least a week's worth of diapers, in a couple of different sizes as your little one will be growing fast.  Of course include unscented baby wipes, to avoid irritation and disposable bags for the used diapers.  For those who take recycling very seriously, invest in cloth diapers and wipes which can be washed and reused.

6. Clothing - young babies go through so many....

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Prepare a full set of clothing which is suitable for the current season, with onesies, sleepers, hats and socks.  When the season changes, adjust your emergency set accordingly.  All clothing should be of a breathable fabric and easy to put on your child.

7. Baby Blankets - to keep baby cosy and warm....

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Always have a stock of spare baby blankets.  Because young babies can vomit up their milk many times a day, be prepared to change bedding and blankets as often as is necessary.  They should be soft and cosy, leaving baby comfortable and relaxed even in an emergency.

8. Baby Carrier/Sling - a lifesaver in an emergency....

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A sling or baby carrier isn't just a convenient form of transport for baby - it could also be a lifesaver in an emergency.  By allowing you to keep your child close to you, you can keep your hands free for other important tasks that may lay ahead.  These days it's cool for both parents to wear a baby sling!

9. Baby Comfort Items - to help baby stay calm....

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You know what it's like if you misplace your child's favorite comfort item, usually a pacifier, a soft, stuffed animal or a particular (piece of) blanket.  There will be a lot of tears as the little person yearns for their security item  Be sure to keep their comfort object close by in case of a stressful situation.

10. Baby First Aid Kit - don't be caught out....

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Baby's first aid kit should include specific band aids which have been designed for infants, a medicine dropper to make it easy to administer the liquid and a digital thermometer to monitor his or her temperature.  Besides these generic items, remember to include their prescription medications.

11. Thermometer - maybe the first warning sign....

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Pharmacy shelves and online stores are full of "essential" medical products we should have in our home for emergencies.  Most of them are marketing ploys but one item that isn't is a digital non-contact thermometer.  It's safer for babies and more accurate so you know whether baby is ill.

12. Nappy Rash - its painful and baby's screams will let you know...

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Having a baby-friendly diaper rash cream on hand to prevent this painful condition and to treat it if necessary, is essential so be sure to never run out.  The zinc oxide based creams seem to be the most effective.  They are gentle enough for baby's delicate skin and can heal the rash swiftly.

13. Nasal Aspirator - helps distressed baby to breathe...

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If only baby knew how to blow their nose, then life would be so much easier!  Mucus can affect their breathing and cause worry to the carer.  A nasal aspirator is so useful for removing mucus and ease baby's stuffy nose.  The electric nasal aspirators are really easy to use and highly recommended.

14 Feeding Supplies - sterilized and at the ready...

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Emergency or not, ensure you have an extra supply of clean and sterilized bottles and nipples.  You'll kick yourself if you were intending to sterilize them all in one go and then need one in an emergency. Also, keep extra breast week or formula close by and utensils for feeding if you have a toddler.

15. Baby Shampoo and Wash - gentle and no-tears...

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Don't think you can cut corners and buy a family size bottle of hair and body shampoo, for all the family to use.  Little cherubs need a gentle baby shampoo that won't sting their eyes when it splashes in.  Their skin is thin and sensitive so harsh perfumed products can cause an allergic reaction.

16. Baby Lotion - fragrance free to avoid irritation

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Be mindful that your young child's skin is delicate so you should use a hypoallergenic baby lotion.  It will be fragrance free so won't irritate and will moisturise them from head to foot, leaving them with that gorgeous baby smell that we always miss when they've grown up!

17. Baby Towels & Washcloths - the softer the better...

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You may like to use a loofa to exfoliate your skin in the bath but your baby requires the opposite.  They should be washed with a soft cloth or flannel, with the appropriate baby cleansing product and and then dried off in a soft, fluffy towel, patted dry and not rubbed.  Make sure you always have spare clean towels and washcloths for an emergency.

18. Baby Wipes - clean up in a jiffy...

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Always stock up on extra baby wipes.  In an emergency situation, when water may be scarce, baby wipes are perfect for a quick clean up!  They have so many uses for babies and adults alike that you can never have enough!  Always go for fragrance free and sensitive skin.

19. Baby Powder - always use talc-free...

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There have been lots of stories around pure talc causing serious health issues so that is why you shouldn't take any chances, with yourself or your baby.  Always purchase talc free baby powder. It does the same job and it's much safer.  Apply sparingly to baby's creases in their arms and legs after their bath and after a diaper change to prevent diaper rash.

20. Baby Grooming Kit - they love a pamper... 

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A grooming kit for your baby isn't a luxury - it's an essential.  The kits include a soft hairbrush for their delicate scalp and contain a nail file which is safe for a baby, to maintain their nails and smooth out broken and sharp ones which could cause them to scratch themselves.

21. Emergency Contact Information - could prove vital...

 
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You've probably had it in your mind for ages to prepare a list of emergency contacts, to include the names, phone numbers and relationships applicable to yourself and your baby.  You should include the details of your child's paediatrician, close relatives and friends.  Keep both a digital and physical copy.  Could prove invaluable.

22. Baby Documents - to prove you're the parent!

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Copies of your child's birth certificate, their medical records and identification, such as their Social Security Card or a passport, can be absolutely crucial for identification purposes and medical reasons.  The copies should be kept in a waterproof wallet and if possible, in a fireproof drawer.

23. Baby Carrier Car Seat - it's the law...

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You must ensure that you have a suitable car seat, a rear facing one for very young kids, Practice installing it in your vehicle as it's a complicated procedure the first time you do it, looking at the diagrams and instructions.  If you need to get off very quickly in an emergency, you have to be confident and proficient.

24. Baby Monitor - for SAFETY and peace of mind...

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Baby monitors have come a long way since they were first invented.  You can view baby, with audio, through your cell phone if you want.  You can also check on your baby from a distance away from the home, not just from the room downstairs!  This allows you to check on your precious one at any time.

25. Baby Nail Clippers/Scissors - remember to go easy...

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Parents should consider baby nail clippers as a necessity as they are designed specifically for small, baby fingers.  They will do the job a lot better than adult clippers!  Because young kids' nails grow quickly, they run the risk of scratching their faces if the nails become rough and jagged.

26. Battery-Powered Radio - if electricity fails in an emergency...

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No, we're not asking you to go back in time to the 1950s!  We want to advise you how you can stay informed during an emergency situation and keep your family safe. That could be a weather update or an evacuation instruction.  If your electricity has failed, invest in a battery operated radio or an old fashioned hand-crank radio, still available online.

27. Flashlight - when it's pitch black and scary...

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It's a good idea to have a selection of durable, waterproof flashlights and extra batteries.  You can place a flashlight in each room including the nursery in case you need it in an emergency situation.  When your child is old enough to understand, show them how to use it safely.

28.Extra Blankets - as snug as a bug in a rug...

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When you're being really organised and stocking your child's nursery with everything that could come in useful during an emergency, then you'll surely be including extra blankets for added warmth.  Power could go off or there could be extreme weather conditions and those blankets will retain the heat for baby.

29. Portable Fan or Heater - to regulate temperature...

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Depending on the climate in your area or what season it is, a portable fan or heater, battery powered, certainly go towards helping to regulate the temperature in the nursery. Ensure these appliances are safe for indoor use and that they have adequate ventilation.

30. Emergency Food Supplies - long life of course...

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In your nursery emergency stock, put non-perishable baby food items on the list.  Choose stuff your child can eat easily, such as baby food in jars or snacks suitable for toddlers.  Replace the food products if they exceed the expiry dates and store in a cool, dry cupboard.