Q&A Forum
Sam
We have a 14 month old boy, and we are looking to take him out for some trips in our caravan. Our van is fitted with bunk beds, and I am looking at building a gate for the opening (using an old cot side panel) and also blocking off some of the length of the bed using another panel. I plan for this to be solid, well secured, and to ensure there is no gaps between the mattress, etc. As I cant get access to the Australian Standards that govern Cot standards, I was wondering if there is any issues. Mainly regarding the mattress, etc. The existing mattress appears to be a relatively firm foam mattress.
Red Nose Education
Red Nose recommends that a mattress for a baby needs to be firm, clean, well-fitting & flat (not elevated)
https://rednose.org.au/article/what-is-a-safe-mattress
Ensure there is no risk of entrapment between the mattress & enclosure side.
How high is the bunk from the floor? Is there a risk of baby falling/rolling from the bed?
I have added links below which outlines general information about using a bed instead of a cot.
https://rednose.org.au/article/making-your-home-safe-before-moving-a-child-from-a-cot-to-a-bed
Download Cot to Bed Safety Brochure
You may also find this interview about camping/travelling with baby helpful.
https://rednose.org.au/news/chief-midwife-jane-explains-how-to-sleep-baby-safely-whilst-camping