Parenting styles and philosophies may differ greatly, though one issue all can agree upon is that caring for an infant is tough work.  Once baby arrives, there is not enough time in the day to accomplish the multitude of tasks that materialize.  One of the best forms of therapy when it seems the walls are closing in is to get outside and enjoy some fresh air with your child.

Whether you opt for a quick walk around the block or venture out for an overnight stint with your bundle of joy, taking steps to ensure personal security is equally as important in the planning process as is packing the diaper bag.  With this in mind, there are a few points to consider before venturing out.

Proper Use of Baby Carriers for Personal Protection

Parent have to become octopus-like when it comes to carrying the baby, the diaper bag, groceries, purse, laptop, toddler sibling, briefcase and travel coffee cup.  Though on the subject of personal security – less is best, take trips if you need to. Keep your hands as unencumbered as possible.

If you choose to use a stroller, don’t load it down with everything but the kitchen sink.  Lightweight umbrella strollers are a good way to ensure you travel lightly. Other vehicles to transport babychild are the variety of infant carriers – such as slings, backpacks or Snugli.  (Snugli – it’s a fabric carrier that allows you to wear your baby – not the fleece snuggie blanket with arms!)

The practice of wearing your baby is centuries old.  Mothers around the globe have been swaddling baby close to their bodies for generations.  In our western society, design and fashion have advanced this method to new levels of popularity.  Following the manufacture’s recommendation for use is always a good idea, but there are a few personal security points that manufacturer’s don’t address in their literature.

As a consumer, you’ll have a choice of three designs.  These are: Forward or Front Carry, Rear or Back Carry, and those that offer both.  Seems simple enough; just decide which is most comfortable for you and baby, right?  Read on.

Forward carry carriers have the advantage of keeping the baby within arm’s length and in the front where they may be constantly observed.  This is especially important with newborns and older infants. The disadvantage comes when having to defend oneself from a close proximity threat.  As you face your attacker you inadvertently put baby between you and the threat. This is not the posture you want to place yourself in when defending against physical assault.

I don’t need to remind you that your child’s safety is your first concern.  In this instance, increasing distance from the threat is your immediate defense.  You do so by drawing babychild close to your body for protection and using your feet for what they are intended. Standing to confront you attacker should be your last course of action. (read: get the heck out of dodge!)

Rear carriers—worn in the manner of a backpack—offer the advantage of remaining hands-free. I see dads using these most often in amusement park type venues. Remaining hands free is key as you will be much better prepared to counter if attacked.  The disadvantage of the rear carrier is that your child falls outside of your line of sight; even peripheral vision is strained.  The second disadvantage occurs if an attack materializes. During the course of fending off your attacker, there will be a natural tendency to avoid being struck.  This may involve ducking, pivoting, backing and a host of other counter-movements.  These actions can be harmful to a young child while strapped on your back.  Imagine pivoting to counter a blow while in close proximity to a tree or lamp post and you can see how a tragic accident can occur.

If you must defend yourself, bring one hand up over the shoulder strap. Reach across you body and cinch the opposite strap in your hand.  When done correctly [using your left hand] your forearm will be pressed against the outside of the left-strap and the right strap will be clutched tightly in your left hand.  This draws the backpack close and snug to your body.  Your free hand [right] is available to counter blows and strike back at your attacker if necessary.

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of the equipment you use around your child can pay big dividends in terms of personal safety…yours and theirs.