When your baby reaches size 2T (not uncommon around his first birthday), the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends removing neck drawstrings from all outerwear, including hooded jackets and sweatshirts. Strings can get caught on playground equipment or other things like school bus doors. They are a strangulation hazard.

Also, check the drawstrings at the waistbands and bottoms of children's outerwear in sizes 2T to 16. The strings should extend no more than three inches from the garment when it's expanded to its fullest width. A waist drawstring should be sewn to the garment at its midpoint so the string can't be pulled to one side, making it long enough to catch on playground equipment.

Purchase children's jackets and sweatshirts that have snaps, buttons, Velcro, or elastic at the neck and waist. Finally, remove toggles or knots at the ends of all drawstrings, which can also invite trouble.