It’s hard to believe, but there were approximately 12,600 stroller injuries in 1999 and 12 deaths related to strollers between 1995 and 1997, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These products are designed to keep our children safe when we take them out and about, so it is disconcerting to know they do not always do their job correctly. With more than 200 brands, makes and models available on the market today, how can parents choose the best – and safest – stroller to fit their lifestyle and budget?

According to Sandy Jones, author of Guide to Baby Products from Consumer Reports, the best stroller for you and your baby depends on you and your family's need.

“If you live in the country and have lots of safe, smooth terrain for leisurely strolls, you may want to invest in a large carriage/stroller,” says Jones. “On the other hand, if you live in the city and plan to drive to shopping malls and the library, then a high quality, lightweight stroller that folds compactly in your trunk will be the easiest to use. Jogging strollers – with their large, bicycle-style wheels – are great for exercise enthusiasts, but they may be too bulky for everyday use and may have to have the wheels removed to fold in your trunk.”

Safety First
With improved design, government-mandated stroller recalls and manufacturers' voluntary safety standards, strollers are getting safer all the time. But that doesn't mean all strollers are equal when it comes to protecting babies from harm. “Recalls still happen, even with the best products,” says Jones. It's important to keep on top of recalls by checking the iParenting Recall Section or by calling the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's toll-free hotline (800-638-2772) and following the menu options. "Also, be sure to return your warranty card, too. That way the company can contact you directly if there's a serious safety problem.”

There are numerous listings and information regarding stroller recalls available from the CPSC and iParenting.com. “It is better to be well informed than to find out later that an accident could have been avoided,” says Jones.

Running With Baby
Now on the exercise scene for over 15 years, all stroller manufacturers offer their own version of the “jogging stroller.” While a great concept, Jones states that the differences – and the adjustment needed to use them – are very different. “Even with big wheels, sports strollers don't offer total running freedom,” says Jones. “You have to keep your hands on the handle and adjust your gait to avoid kicking the rear frame. And they don't provide a truly cushioned ride. In addition, large-wheeled jogging strollers don't have seats suitable for young babies, and running can be too jarring for infants who don't have good spine and head support. It is suggested to only use a jogger when your baby is able to sit up independently, and even then, start out slow and work your way to a run.”

Safe, Not Sorry
According to the CPSC, stroller injuries occur primarily from falls, while deaths occur from entanglements, entrapments and wedging incidents involving components of stroller structure, such as leg openings. The CPSC has worked to revise stroller standards, but injuries still can happen.

Jones says proper use of safety belts and leg holes covers can avoid any unnecessary injuries. “There is a reason strollers have these items,” says Jones. “When used properly, these can be the most important weapons against injury. Use the seatbelt every time your baby rides inside. Some newer stroller models have a safer five-point harness to prevent active tots from wriggling out instead of simple lap belts. Another option is to purchase a separate harness to fasten onto the stroller frame, making standing up inside the stroller nearly impossible. In addition, leg holes have strangled small babies who make their way out when they were left alone. Large carriage strollers have footrests or fabric covers for sealing off the holes to keep babies from doing that.” The safest strategy, though, is to only use the stroller for movement, not for a bed, Jones notes.

Important Rules
Stroller use is not as simple as “insert baby and walk.” According to Jones, following a few simple rules will keep you and your baby safe and keep your day out full of fun. “Using some common sense rules will prevent your time with your baby from becoming a time you wish to forget,” says Jones. “Strollers aren't toys, so don't let your toddler push one around by the handlebars. The outsides of strollers have sharp edges that could hurt if she loses balance and falls into the frame. Sometimes strollers fall over backward when parents fasten purses and shopping bags over models with umbrella-shaped handles. Instead, use the storage bin underneath the stroller. Test the opening and folding of the stroller. There should be sturdy backup locks on the frame to prevent the stroller from folding unexpectedly while a small passenger is riding inside. Pretty simple, pretty plain; just make sure you follow them.”

Consumer Reports tests show that “high price and quality don't always match up.” CPSC reports that economical, or lower-priced strollers can be of a higher quality then those costing twice as much. It is a matter of preference, need and safety based on lifestyle that should determine which stroller is best you and your baby. “Today's trend of high-end baby products is producing high quality,” says Jones. “Appealing to parents who want the best for their baby, where quality and design is more important than cost results in a product being a ‘luxury’ without necessarily being the most expensive. Being either the best, the most convenient or the safest that makes it quality, not necessarily the most costly.”