Car Seat Options: Ten Basic Rules

Having Kids means having car seats. However, many parents don’t know their options when it comes to car seats or even realize they have options!  They also don’t always know the “rules”. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, automobile accidents are the #1 killer for kids between the ages of 1 and 14. It is SO important to have a car seat or other  optional child restraint system and to be aware of these ten basic rules:

• All kids under the age of 12 should ride in the back seat. This cuts their risk of death by 36%.
• Kids should be in a carseat or booster or other restraint system until they can be seated properly in a seatbelt which is usually around 8-12 years old or 4’9″ tall. A properly fitted seatbelt is the most important thing.
• Never place a rear facing carseat in the front where there is an active air bag.

Read more: – Five Reasons You Should Invest in the Vest

• Keep your baby rear facing as long as you can. This can mean up to 40 pounds in many convertible seats or until they outgrow it by height first.
• Select the restraint system/car seat that best fits your child, your vehicle and your budget.  Select features that allow you to use it CORRECTLY every time.
• Real all owners manuals for your vehicle and car seat/restraint system. By doing this, you’ll ensure that you’re using and installing it correctly.
• Make sure that the harness fits snugly on your child and that the car seat fits snugly in your vehicle.
• Make sure you have a good return policy on your car seat when you buy one.
• Be wary of used car seats especially if they’re over six years old. They could have an unknown history, damage, or missing parts.
• Give driving your undivided attention when toting little ones. This is the best way to protect yourself and your child.

SEE ALSO:

– Why You NEED a Ride Safer Travel Vest