Car Seat Safety
August 8, 2019 2:15 pmUsing a car seat correctly makes a big difference
To properly protect your child in the event of a crash, make sure the car seat you’re using is installed properly.
If your car has airbags:
- DO NOT place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has front passenger airbags.
- For children younger than 13 years, the safest place is in the back seat regardless of height and weight.
- If your older child must ride in the front seat, a forward-facing car seat with a harness may be your best choice. When using a forward-facing car seat make sure to move the front seat as far back as possible. You do not want your child close to the dashboard (and airbag) while riding in the front seat.
Make sure you read the instructions for the car seat you are using:
- Keep the instructions with the car seat.
- You may need to use a latch instead of a seat belt. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the car seat is installed and being used properly.
- Remember to keep your child in the car seat until he or she reaches the height or weight limit set by the manufacturer.
If you need help or have questions installing your car seat, visit the following website to find a list of local CPST (Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician) and child seat-fitting stations in your area.
- National Child Passenger Safety Certified Technicians: https://cert.safekids.org/get-car-seat-checked
For more information please click on the following links:
- Rear Facing Car Seats: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Rear-Facing-Car-Seats-for-Infants-Toddlers.aspx
- Car Safety and Prevention: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Information-for-Families.aspx
- AAP Updates Recommendations: https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/Pages/AAP-Updates-Recommendations-on-Car-Seats-for-Children.aspx
- CDC Recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/child-passenger-safety/index.html
Categorized in: News
This post was written by Delaware Pediatrics