This study has been published online in the journal Pediatrics. The head and face were the most common places for these injuries. Kristi Roberts, MS, MPH, the study author and research associate in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s, says that although these products are used safely by families daily, when injuries do occur they may be very serious. It is frightening that most of the injuries seen were head injuries in consideration of the fact that traumatic brain injuries and concussions in young kids may have long term consequences on their cognitive development.
Parents and other caregivers should take the time to make certain children are safely buckled up whenever they are in a stroller or carrier. Also keep the handles clear of heavy items such as purses and bags which can cause them to tip over. The stroller and carrier should also be checked to make certain it's the right size for the child. And make certain strollers and carriers are locked when they are parked to prevent them from rolling away. Also when strollers and carriers are low there will be less of a fall to the ground for the child if it tips over. And remember to always check for recalls. The unusually large number of serious injuries from strollers and carriers helps to emphasize the need to be extra careful when using them with your kids.
