You are responsible for the safety of your child right from their first journey from the hospital. A lot of children die from unintentional injury and automobile crashes. You can avoid accidents by following a few basic rules. If you are a parent, you should know that children should always be in safety belts and their specific car seats and booster seats. However, there is a lot more than you can do to protect your children and babies. They include:
Do Not Leave Your Child Alone in the Car
Do not leave your child in the car even if you plan to be away only for a few minutes. This may seem like an obvious fact, but a lot of people make that mistake. Leaving your child in the car can be very scary for them. The temperature in a car changes quickly, so it may get too hot or too cold while you are away. Unfortunately, at least 30 children die when left in the car alone every year.
Use the Right Car Seats
When choosing a car seat for your child, there is no right or wrong answer. The right seat is one that fits your car and the needs of your child. If your child weighs 20 to 22 pounds, an infant car seat is appropriate. These seats are portable and lightweight. Car seats for toddlers are appropriate for those who have outgrown the requirements of a rear-facing car seat. These forward-facing car seats are appropriate for children of 65 pounds and over. For preschoolers, go for car seats that can accommodate up to 100 pounds. Children need boosters from age three to eight. Install your car seats well to avoid car seat injury.
Buckle Them Correctly
The first step is installing the right type of car seat for your child but that is not enough. Try buckling the seat into your car a few times before a ride with your child. The harness straps should fit well on the body. For the rear-facing position, ensure that the straps in the slot at or below the shoulders of your baby.
Avoid Dressing Your Child in Oversized Clothing
Belting your child while they are dressed in oversized clothing is not a good idea. If it is cold, keep them warm without clothing them in fluffy winter clothes. In the unfortunate event that you get into an accident, bulky clothes will compress and the space between your baby and the belts will be too much. It is okay to cover them with a warm blanket after belting.
Reduce Front Seat Distraction
You can keep your child entertained while in the backseat by providing them with something to do. Consider handing them their favorite toys, coloring books, and other fun books. Having systems in the back reduces distractions for you and makes your ride safer.
Diamond Pediatrics helps you keep your child safe. We provide your child with world-class healthcare at fair prices. You will always get help from a certified pediatric doctor that understands that children are an amazing gift and deserve to be treated as such. The wait time is short and you get direct access to your child’s doctor.