In present times, many parents fail to either properly install a car seat, or ensure that the straps are tight and securely around their precious passengers.
It is a general knowledge that toddlers are not the submissive types, so getting them strapped in a car seat can be challenging. As a parent, you should not skip this important step no matter the hassle, to prevent any incidents on-the-go. Car crashes can truly be a matter of life and death and your patience in strapping your kids up might just save them. So, buckle up!
The latest statistics show a great reduction in serious injuries or even deaths among infants and toddlers from installing car seats. Therefore, it is important to consider having a car and/or booster seat for children’s safety.
Here’s a checklist of extremely important safety guidelines to bear in mind whenever you’re on the road with your little ones.
a. Always think about your children’s safety and best interest, so don’t risk their lives in buying old or outdated car seats. These items might be defective and could lead to serious injuries should you get into an accident.
b. Ensure that the car seat is installed properly and fastened to the car correctly.
c. Remove bulky winter clothing for a secure snug strap. Winter coats tend to loosen the harness, making it less effective.
d. Check and see if the harness strap is snug enough but not compromising your child’s comfort.
When to use Rear-facing or forward-facing car seats
The general rule is to keep your kids rear-facing for as long as possible. As long as your child did not reach the car seat’s limit in that position (usually until age 2), do not flip them around. Rear-facing seats are much safer for your child since their head, neck and spine are better supported. Once your kids become taller and heavier, consider switching to forward-facing car seats with lower anchors and tethers for children.
Using a Booster Car Seat
When your child reaches the height and weight limits of the forward-facing car seat, transitioning to a booster seat would be appropriate. The booster seat aims to keep the seat belt properly positioned so your kids are better restrained, especially during a crash. It is highly recommended that only children who are about 4 feet 9 inches tall and around 80 pounds are suitable to use your car’s regular seat belts. So unless your tiny tots meet that requirement, they should be using booster car seats to keep them from danger.
It’s always good to pay extra attention to minute details. Carefully determine the safety needs of your child when on the go to avoid mistakes because you’ll never know when accidents will happen.
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