The number of children dying or being hurt in car accidents has decreased drastically since 1975. However, there were 1,184 children killed in car accidents in 2021. The good news is that there are several steps parents can take to protect their children while in the car. You should take the following precautions.
Make Sure Your Child Is Properly Restrained
Proper restraints can reduce a child’s chances of dying in a car accident by anywhere from 45 to 72 percent according to the Center for Disease Control. There are height and weight requirements that determine how long children need to be in car seats and booster seats.
However, most children will need to be in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 12 months old. Even though many children can move to a forward-facing car seat at the age of one, it is best to keep them rear-facing for as long as you can. Children will need to stay in a forward-facing car seat until they are at least three years old.
Children are ready for a booster seat once they outgrow the forward-facing car seat. They should stay in a booster seat until they can comfortably fit the adult seat belt. This typically happens between the ages of eight and 12.
Keep in mind that even though children are usually ready for adult seat belts by the age of 12, they should still stay in the back seat. The front seat is only safe for passengers who are over the age of 13. Both car seats and booster seats have to be fastened properly in order to provide optimal protection.
Activate the Child Safety Locks
Children are naturally curious, so they may want to play with the buttons on the windows and doors. That is why it is important to use the child safety locks. Children can be seriously hurt if they accidentally open the door or let down a window.
Remove Blankets And Coats
You should take off your child’s coat or blanket before putting them in their car seat or booster seat. Your child will not have optimal protection if they have on a coat or are covered with a blanket. If it is an extremely cold day and a blanket is needed, then you should cover your child with the blanket after you buckle them in their seat.
Keep Your Vehicle in Good Shape
If your vehicle is in good shape, then the chances of an accident are lower. That is why you should keep up with basic maintenance on your car. Tire rotations, oil changes, filter changes and tune-ups will keep your vehicle safely functioning the way that it should.
Do Not Let Children Eat Inside of the Car
Eating on the go may seem convenient. However, it can be dangerous for a child to eat while in the car because they can choke. You may not realize that your child is choking until it is too late.
It is best to give your child something to eat before you get on the road. If they get hungry, then you should pull over and allow them to eat.
Do Not Leave Children in the Car
You should never leave your children alone in a vehicle. Even if you only have to go in a store for a few minutes, it is best for you to take them with you. Many problems can occur if children are left alone.
For example, children can get trapped in their seat belts. They can also hit a control that causes the car to move. Kidnapping, carjackings and vehicle fires are other problems that can occur if children are left alone in a vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle can easily reach a dangerously high temperature on a hot day.
A car can be a dangerous place for a child. Fortunately, taking the aforementioned precautions will keep children safe from harm. By prioritizing their safety and adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that every car journey with your child is a secure and worry-free experience.
