Car Safety Tips for Children

From the first car ride home from the hospital on, parents are responsible for making sure their child is safe during each car trip. For young children, this starts with proper car seat installation, but there’s so much more to it than that.

Install and use Your Car Seat CorrectlyYou can have it checked at a fire stations, hospital or other child safety event. Never use an old or used child safety seat unless you’re positive it has never been involved in a vehicle accident, and you have all the parts and instructions.

Young ChildrenKids younger than 12 years old should always ride in the backseat and should be wearing their seat belt at all times. Never share a seat belt.

Kids in the Car Alone – NEVERDo not ever leave you child alone in the car, not even for a couple of minutes. When parked in the sun, the temperature inside your car can rise 20 degrees and cause heatstroke. Your child is so vulnerable and could be removed from the vehicle in a blink of an eye.

Toys in the CarBe selective about toys in your car. Stick to soft ones that will not injure your child. Make sure to secure loose object and toys in your car. A loose item in a crash can injure your child.

Repairs and MaintenanceBe sure to keep up with necessary repairs and maintenance on your vehicle. A broken down vehicle is always a hassle, but if it happens when your child is in the car, it can be even more difficult to deal with!

Safety FirstPull over for a dropped toy, crying baby or anything else that may distract you from the road. You are driving with precious cargo and always need to be safe.