Car Seat Safety

By now you probably know that car seat safety is a must when it comes to your infant or toddler.

Deciding on the right car seat is only half the battle however.

Once you decide on the best car seat to suit your needs, you should follow certain safety precautions to keep your baby safe year after year.

Car seats, like any other device, need some periodic maintenance or checking in. Here are the basics when it comes to car seat safety:

• Never put your child in a car while driving unless your child is safely fastened into a car seat. This means even if you plan to drive across the street to your neighbor's house, you have to buckle your child in.
• Always use a rear-facing car seat for children less than one year of age and less than 20 pounds. If your baby falls outside the normal height and weight requirements for his age, you may need a larger, but still rear facing, car seat.
• If possible always install your baby's carseat in the rear or back seat of your vehicle.
• Never place a car seat in a location where an airbag may deploy. If you have rear air bags in your vehicle, have them removed.
• Follow the manufacturers directions for installing your baby's carseat.
• Check in with your local fire department to make sure your car seat is installed correctly. They can even help you install it right the first time.
• Avoid dressing your baby in anything tight or in sleep sacks while riding in a car seat. You can always use a baby blanket to keep your child warm. Wearing too many clothes can prevent you from tightening the seat belts properly.
• Check your carseat periodically to make sure it has not come loose. If it has, tighten it up immediately.
• Avoid buying a used car seat if at all possible. Your best and safest bet is to buy a modern model with verified safety features.
• Make sure you secure your child snugly in their car seat. Never let an older child forgo riding in their car seat or booster for convenience. Using a car seat can mean the difference between life and death.
• Periodically check the level indicator if using a rear facing car seat or a convertible seat. This will help ensure you have the seat set up at a proper angle so your little one gets the support he or she needs.

Remember, a car seat is quite possibly the most important purchase you will make during your babies life. Take time to review the models available and decide on one that matches your personal needs, lifestyle and interest. One thing is clear, child car seats save lives. Fortunately most of the public today realizes this. And don't forget, you can always check in with your local fire department if you are having trouble installing your carseat. They are happy to help out, and can even show you how to do it yourself so you won't have any trouble the next time you need to install a seat.

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