HazMat (Hazardous Materials) Baby Shower

This is far from the usual cutesy baby shower, and that's part of why it's so much fun!

I first did this for a co-worker who was not into frilly things.

We happened to both be volunteer hazardous materials emergency responders, so I decided to have some fun with it!

This theme works very well for co-ed showers. You can also adapt it to other trades such as construction workers.

The theme of this shower recognized that parenthood is at times a messy proposition.

We decorated with hazard tape, tarps, orange road cones - all available at any hardware store. One group got together to get a carpet cleaner.

Others brought bibs, washcloths, baby wipes... Anything to prevent or clean messes.

I have also given new fathers a HazMat response kit.

I fill a five-gallon bucket with ear plugs, heavy-duty paper towels, baby-proofing supplies - be creative!

I just walk the aisles of a hardware store and use my imagination.

Of course, a roll of duct tape always brings grins.