Even if you don’t have small kids, you may be tasked with driving the children of family or friends during summer road trip season. You definitely want to be prepared.
Here’s how to safely install a car seat.
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), putting infants and children in car seats can reduce the risk of death by up to 71 percent.
However, a whopping 72 percent of car and booster seats are used improperly.
Go to SaferCar.gov to find an official seat inspector who can show you how to correctly install and use a car seat.
If your vehicle doesn’t come with lower anchors and tethers to attach to the car seat, you can use the regular seat belt, but read the instructions carefully.
Pay attention to the child’s height and weight. The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that kids remain rear facing until they’re at least two years old, and many can go even longer than that.
The five-point harness is a critical part of the equation. Follow the manufacturer’s directions detailing where the straps and buckles should sit, and never let a child ride with any part of the harness unbuckled.
For more information about safely traveling with children, visit:
- How to Childproof a Hotel Room
- Five Potential Dangers of Flying With Kids
- What You’re Doing Wrong On Your Family Road Trip
Keep reading for more travel tips.
