Are baby monitors safe to use in your home? Have you ever thought about whether or not it is safe to have a baby monitor around your child?

Well, in this article I’d like to share with you some information around the safety of baby monitors.

Are Baby Monitors Safe – Infant Deaths

I’m sure you are aware that recently there were 2 reports of infant deaths due to strangulation by the cords of a baby monitor. After a little further research it was found in both cases the baby monitors were placed too close to the baby’s crib. In one case it was on the crib rail and in the other is was placed on a changing table right next to the crib. In both situations they were in the reach of the child.

To avoid further deaths like these, we recommend you place any baby monitors at least 3 feet away from what your child has access to. Many of the cameras today have a great range even with their night vision. Most can see very clearly from at least 6 feet away. Also, many of the cameras now a days even have a zoom feature on them. This is a great feature as you will be able to place the camera at a very safe distance from your child. So, are baby monitors safe? Well, these type of incidents can be avoided by simply placing  the monitor away from your child.

Are Baby Monitors Safe – Unwanted Viewers

Another safety concern is that some older video monitors transmit their signals in an un-encrypted signal. This made it possible for other people in your neighborhood or people driving by to tune into what your baby monitor was broadcasting. There was concern that burglars could potentially use this information to know when it would be a good time to stop by homes when no one was around. This is because many parent simply leave the baby monitor on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The baby monitor industry responded and now offer baby monitors with built in data encryption. This now prevents others from listening in on or watching what is going on in your home. Parents can now feel safe and secure knowing no one other than them are able to see their baby in their baby monitor.

So, to return to our initial question of are baby monitors safe or not; there have been instances where baby monitors have caused death, but as we learned they were unfortunately an error made by the parents.

We both know babies love to explore. If there are wires around to pull on and play with, they will. Be sure to read the instructions for your baby monitor, get one with data encryption and place it at least 6 feet from your child and you’ll love the assurance your baby monitor will give you knowing you’ll be made aware immediately when your baby needs you.