Protecting Your Baby While in The Car
There is nothing more important about driving with a baby than ensuring that your precious little one is sitting in a car seat that is properly installed in your car. It is not enough that your baby is belted in but if the car seat is improperly installed, they are still in danger. Here are some tips to help you:
- It is vital to read the instruction manual that comes with the car seat as well as the vehicle’s owner manual. Every car is different so it’s important to read so you know where to find the parts needed to install the seat. The instructions will also alert you to the height and weight of requirements for the appropriate car seat.
- The car seat should always be installed in the back seat. There is never a time when it is acceptable to place a car seat in the front seat. Follow the manufacturer’s installation directions. If you cannot find the manual, they are typically on line and you can print what you need from there.
- If your baby is younger than 2 years old, you should have him/her in a rear-facing car seat. They are more protected in a rear-facing seat. It is important that the car seat be tightly secured and installed at the right recline angle.
- When your child is forward facing, there will be a tether strap that connects to the anchor and should be strapped tightly. You should not be able to be move the seat side to side more than one inch when pulled on.
Protecting your child is the most important thing there is and if you need assistance, you can always stop at a fire station and they will help to make sure you have installed it correctly. Remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry so ensure that you do your best to read, learn and ask for help if you need it!